An Investigation into the Development of the Spatial Concept of the In-Between Space in the Netherlands and Japan in the 20th Century

Abstract

In-between spaces are the gradual
transition spaces between two opposites; between inside and outside or public
and private. This research will investigate the motives and implementation of
the concept within Dutch and Japanese architecture, as it is widely used within
architecture of these countries. Because the in-between space concept is
perceived differently by architects, theories and works of two Dutch and two
Japanese architects are investigated. The Dutch architects are Aldo van Eyck
(1918-1999) and Herman Hertzberger (1932) and Japanese architects are Kisho
Kurokawa (1934-2007) and Sou Fujimoto (1971). This research reveals that the
in-between space concept emerged as a response to the modern movement in the
Netherlands. Van Eyck and Hertzberger strived for more human centred
architecture and therefore implemented in-between spaces in their buildings.
Kurokawa and Fujimoto are both influenced by Japanese culture. The in-between
space concept is traced back to the Buddhism origin of the country. Even though
the motives of the architects of both countries are different, the
implementation is similar. The Dutch architects emphasise the human
relationship with each other slightly more, whereas the Japanese architects
emphasise the relationship between humans and their environment more. The
ambiguous character of an in-between space leaves room for interpretation,
providing new perceptions and a different spatial experience. The in-between
space is a space in it’s own right and therefore just as important as other
spaces.