Winner of Japan Wood Design Award 2022

Japan Wood Design Award

The renovation of the Canadian Academy International School in Kobe, developed in collaboration with Takenaka Corporation, received the Japan Wood Design Award 2022.

The project began with a simple question: how can an international school feel rooted in its Japanese context while remaining open and welcoming to students from around the world?

Rather than using wood as decoration, it became the material that shaped the experience of the building - bringing rhythm, filtered light and moments of calm into everyday school life. Spaces were designed to support learning, encourage connection and create places where students could simply pause and feel at ease.

The jury, chaired by architect Kengo Kuma, recognised this approach, noting that "the use of wood emphasises the design and succeeds in bringing a sense of Japaneseness into an international school."

For me, the award is meaningful not simply as recognition, but because it reflects the way I approach every project: understanding the character of a place, listening to the people who will use it, and creating environments that quietly support wellbeing, learning and everyday life.

CA International School Kobe - Library

CA International School Kobe - Cafe

CA International School Kobe - Atrium