International Talk: Yuki Ikeguchi from Kengo Kuma & Associates

At Kengo Kuma & Associates, architecture begins with listening to a place. To its landscape, its history, and the people who will use the building. The aim is to create buildings that become a natural part of their surroundings rather than dominate them. Wood, stone, water, and light play an important role. Natural materials and open spaces blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating architecture that can breathe and change over time. 

In this talk, Yuki takes us inside the firm’s work and shares the philosophy behind landmark projects such as H.C. Andersen’s House in Odense and the upcoming Water Culture House on Papirøen in Copenhagen. Along the way, we explore the values shared by Japan and the Nordic countries: respect for craftsmanship, a love of natural materials, and the beauty of simplicity. Perhaps the future of architecture is less about creating something perfect and complete and more about making room for nature, people, and change. 

AfterDAC International Talk is a series in English where you meet recognized voices from the worlds of architecture and art. 

About Yuki Ikeguchi 

Yuki is a partner and Executive Vice President at Kengo Kuma & Associates in Paris. She has led a range of international projects, with a particular focus on public and cultural buildings in Europe.

About Kengo Kuma & Associates 

Kengo Kuma & Associates is an internationally acclaimed Japanese architecture firm founded by architect Kengo Kuma in 1990. The firm has designed landmark buildings around the world, including the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo, V&A Dundee in Scotland, and the Odunpazarı Modern Museum in Turkey. 

In Denmark, the firm designed the award-winning H.C. Andersen’s House in Odense and is behind the upcoming Water Culture House on Papirøen in Copenhagen. 

Practical information

• Language: The event will be held in English.
• Discounts: DAC Club members enjoy free admission but must reserve a ticket in advance. Become a member of DAC Club here.
• Dinner: If you would like to have dinner at the DAC Café before the talk, we recommend booking a table.
• Tip: AfterDAC is free with admission to DAC, but advance booking is required. Before or after the talk, you are welcome to explore DAC's current exhibitions at no extra charge.

Join Us for Dinner Before AfterDAC 

Start your evening at DAC Café with a seasonal dinner featuring local ingredients. Choose between a fish or meat dish and a vegetarian option. All dishes are served with house-baked bread and whipped butter. 

Dinner costs DKK 175. Purchase your dinner ticket together with your event ticket and choose a dining time of 17:30 or 18:00. We will automatically reserve a table for you. If you are coming on your own, you will be seated at a high table or a shared long table. DAC Club members receive a 10% discount at the café. 

Portrait: Stephanie Fuessenich / Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj

The series is supported by the Danish Art Foundation.