Humanizing modern architecture: The role of Das Japanische Wohnhaus in Alvar Aalto’s design for his own house and studio in Riihitie

Abstract

The role of traditional Japanese houses and gardens in Finnish architect Alvar Aalto's (1898-1976) career is often mentioned but without an in-depth study. This article analyzes and compares Aalto's design for his own house and studio in Riihitie (1935-6) and his reading of Japan, particularly through Tetsuro Yoshida's 1935 Das Japanische Wohnhaus (The Japanese House).