The Last Nuclear Bomb Memorial / Edition #5 Honorable mention winners - Daii Shimada, Mai Nakano and Midori Watanabe

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winners of our "The Last Nuclear Bomb Memorial / Edition #5" competition – Daii Shimada, Mai Nakano and Midori Watanabe from Japan!

Daii Shimada, Mai Nakano and Midori Watanabe from Japan

Please tell us about your company (when it was founded, where it is based, how many employees, etc) Alternatively, if you do not have a company, please give us some insights on your own professional/academia background.

We are part of the Architectural Design Division at Shimizu Corporation, a Tokyo-based company founded in 1804. With a history spanning over 200 years, Shimizu has been involved in constructing some of Japan’s most renowned buildings. The company has approximately 11,000 employees, including around 3,000 dedicated to architectural design, while others work in construction, research, and even space development. Our approach to architectural design integrates traditional techniques with extensive construction and engineering expertise to create innovative and high-quality buildings.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been Involved?

Daii: I am an architect and looking for a lean, efficient design approach that is integrated with digital fabrication techniques and human trends. I aim to clarify the construction process while allowing the maximum amount of time for design thinking.

Mai: I have been working as a design architect for over 10 years, experiencing a wide range of applications including research facilities, production facilities, and offices. In 2022, I served as the design lead for the “Shonan Innovation Lab”, a research facility of approximately 10,000 square meters. This project aimed to create a space where researchers from a global construction machinery manufacturer could innovate. I explored zoning plans and the concept of atrium spaces to foster collaboration among people, and this project received multiple awards.

Midori: I am responsible for visualization within the company, creating CG renderings, videos, and VR content. In addition to my regular duties, I participate in international CG rendering competitions every year. In 2015, I became the first Asian to win first place at the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI) AIP30. I always keep in mind what scenes are most suitable for presenting proposals and create CG renderings accordingly.

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

Architecture is not limited to a select few—it impacts everyone worldwide and has the power to improve or diminish quality of life. An architect's role extends beyond simply meeting a client’s needs; it involves creating designs that positively influence society, its people, and all living beings, with a long-term vision in mind. Therefore, we believe it is essential for architects to continuously expand their knowledge, not only in specialized fields but also in history, culture, and current global affairs, to approach design from a broader perspective.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

In architectural competitions, we are challenged to explore themes that we do not typically consider in our daily work. This presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on societal movements and the role of architecture, adding depth to our usual design proposals.

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

The reason we participate in architectural competitions remains the same. In our usual work, there is always a defined relationship between the client and the architect. However, competitions provide the opportunity for architects to create proposals independently. It is valuable to explore and refine your own ideas, and through teamwork, you can experience the excitement of arriving at unexpected solutions. Actively engaging in architectural competitions will undoubtedly have a positive impact on your growth and creativity.