Background of Klein Dytham Architecture

Name:
Instructor:
Course:
Date:
Klein Dytham Architecture
Klein Dytham architecture is a multi-disciplinary design practice that works freely across disciplines including architecture, interiors, installations, furniture, events, and consultancy. The company’s build work includes flagship retail stores, private residences, restaurants, offices, and resort facilities. It was founded in 1991 by Royal College of Art graduates, Astrid Klein and Mark Dytham. Astrid was born in Italy, schooled in France, and educated in Britain with a Masters degree from the Royal College of Art. She has held lecturing positions at universities in Japan, Australia, the USA, the UK, and throughout Europe. Mark studied architecture at the Royal College of Art and is a frequent guest speaker at global design events. He also lectures at universities in Japan and was awarded an MBE for his contributions to British Design in Japan. After studying together in London, Astrid and Mark travelled to Japan for a three-month tour but decided to stay longer and start their own architecture practice. The co-founders of Klein Dytham architecture were drawn by the country’s simplicity of design, acceptive attitude to new designs, and attention to detail. Astrid and Mark first worked with architect Toyo Ito for two years before establishing their own architecture firm (Echo Chamber).
Five years after the founding of Klein Dytham architecture, Yukinari Hisama joined the company as the head architect. Hisama has a Bachelors degree from Yokohama National University and is a licensed architect and interior designer. As the lead architect, Hisama is involved in all phases of the design process from materials to constructions. He also teaches at Kuwasawa Design School and Kanto Gakuin University. Taking the best architectural forms from the east and west, Klein Dytham architecture seeks to integrate different cultures to come up with new and appropriate designs. Klein Dytham architecture has managed to attract a high-profile client list such as Google, Sony, Selfridges, and Shisedo. Some of the company’s award-winning designs that have gone ahead to become landmarks include Ginza Place (2016), PokoPoko Clubhouse (2020), Cartier Façade Osaka (2021), Daikanyama T-SITE bookstore (2011), and Open House (2017).
Cartier Façade Osaka (2021)
Ginza Place (2016)
PokoPoko Clubhouse (2020)
Daikanyama T-SITE bookstore (2011)
Open House (2017)
Klein Dytham architecture is the recipient of several architecture awards such as the World Architecture Festival Awards, D&AD Awards, American Retail Environment Awards, and Wallpaper Design Awards and Design for Asia.
The practice does not have any stylistic recipes but works with the client and project demands to develop unique and aesthetic architectural solutions. Some of the key elements in the firm’s continuous search for new designs that meet clients’ specific needs include materials, technology, color, and humor. Each project uses different materials, design features, and surface treatments. However, by combining innovation with play in all these diverse works, Klein Dytham’s projects are not only visually appealing to its largely commercial clients but also re...