Tomas Maier has always been passionate about architecture, and is a strong believer in Japanese Modernism. In a context of pre-Olympic Games preparations – planned for 2020 in Tokyo – a significant part of Japan’s post-war architecture has already been torn down or is soon to be demolished. In the midst of these Modernist architectural treasures: the Hotel Okura. Taking the traditional Japanese aesthetic to a contemporary level, this hotel has managed to become the icon it is today. There is a real sense of heritage in Japanese Modernism today. An heritage that comes from traditional Japanese culture and that should always be celebrated. The value of heritage is no stranger to Bottega Veneta that has always transmitted its know-how, craftsmanship and values to the next generations and into its products.

In this sense, Bottega Veneta supported a symposium on November 4, 2014 held at the Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. On this occasion, a panel of specialists among which architects Fumihiko Maki and Toshiko Mori discussed this burning issue. Bottega Veneta also initiated a collaboration with Japan’s famous architecture and interior design magazine, BRUTUS, for their January 2015 issue. With Tomas Maier as its special contributor, the issue will be dedicated to Japan’s Modernist architecture. All of these initiatives supported and initiated by Bottega Veneta and Tomas Maier are made to serve one goal: to raise awareness about Modern Architecture in Japan and to save its remaining symbols.

In this short video broadcast by Bottega Veneta, Tomas Maier delivers a sincere message. Following him on his trip through Japan and its most beautiful Modernist buildings, Maier reflects on a society willing to let go of such a strong heritage and create an atmosphere that lacks a soul, that could be found anywhere in the world. « I think it’s important to raise awareness, to tell the world: Careful. Do something now, not afterwards… »

For more information about the Japanese architectural gems that are in danger, please go on Bottega Veneta for Japanese Modernism portal