Architect's profession

Not only are there a shortage of structures and facilities, but the number of successful candidates is concentrated in the metropolitan area and in some prefectures in rural areas, the number of successful candidates is in the single digits, and there is a severe regional imbalance. This result shows that in rural areas, Architectural Design above a certain level is not possible. If things continue as they are, not only will the gap between metropolitan areas and rural areas widen, but we are concerned that the architectural culture in rural areas will also decline. Legal regulations inevitably deal with technical issues, but in the future, they need to be revised to be more realistic, taking into account the actual conditions of the region. Architecture plays an important role in revitalizing the local economy. We hope to see how far the law can support this in the future. Meanwhile, we Architectural Design designers need to prove through our own work that architecture is not just about numbers and technology, and we need to earn society's trust with our own hands, regardless of legal regulations.

In a dialogue with Dr. Minoru Kamata, author of "Don't Try Too Hard," Professor Nagata Katsutaro of Hamamatsu University School of Medicine spoke about what medical care should be, using the term "holistic medical care." The gist of the talk is that medical care should not only look at the diseased organ, but should look at the sick person holistically, and that a comprehensive diagnosis should be made that includes the body, psychology, society (environment), and even the existence of the human being. This approach is very useful when applied to our work in Architectural Design. In the highly information-driven society, modern architecture has become more and more complex both functionally and technically, and architecture itself has become subdivided, giving rise to many specialized fields related to architecture. What should be required in Architectural Design is to build a sense of holism. In other words, Architectural Design must have comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of architectural production and the ability to solve problems comprehensively. Furthermore, considering that architecture is related to all phenomena surrounding human society, from the global environment to economic crises, architecture is also required to face human existence and be created at the interface with ideas and philosophy. "Human existence and architecture" is a fitting theme in an age where spiritual desolation is often an issue.

We should also take this opportunity to think about the meaning of the existence of architects. In these difficult times, we must recognize the meaning of the existence of our profession in human society and fulfill the role we are meant to play.