January 24 – March 15, 2025, at the Former Public Tobacco Factory
The internationally acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma presents his major exhibition “Onomatopoeia” in Athens at the Former Public Tobacco Factory from Friday, January 24, to Sunday, March 15. This exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore his work and discover the connection between architecture and sound.
A Multi-Sensory Experience
The exhibition features models of Kengo Kuma’s iconic projects, highlighting the relationship between architecture, materials, and sound. Through a multi-sensory approach, visitors will experience the vocal dimension of materials, as defined by the concept of “Onomatopoeia”—the formation of words through the imitation of sounds.
Kuma’s Philosophy
Kengo Kuma redefines sustainable architecture by connecting humans with nature and materials. Inspired by Japanese tradition, he uses materials such as wood, paper, and metal, blending them with modern techniques to create structures that exude lightness and movement. He believes that materials tell the story of a place, and his architecture is simultaneously global and deeply rooted in local culture.
A Global and Local Footprint
Kengo Kuma’s works span Japan, Europe, America, and Australia, demonstrating the harmonious coexistence of materials, space, and history. In Greece, Kuma is contributing to The Ellinikon project, designing the Riviera Galleria and the Marina Residences, both of which are expected to transform Athens’ coastal front.
Photography: Gavriil Papadiotis | Instagram: @gavriilux
Kengo Kuma – “Onomatopoeia”
Duration: January 24 – March 15, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Venue: Former Public Tobacco Factory, 218 Lenorman Street, Athens
Admission: Free (Registration required)
The exhibition is organized by Medexpo and the Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) at the Former Public Tobacco Factory, a space provided by the Hellenic Parliament. It takes place within the framework of The Architect Show in collaboration with Kengo Kuma & Associates.
For more information, visit the The Architect Show website.
With the Support of: The Hellenic Parliament, The Embassy of Japan, The Hellenic Institute of Architecture
Grand Sponsor: METKA
Sponsors: ELVAL COLOUR, MORO GLOBAL, PROGETTO
Supporters: AGGLOTECH, Caneplexus, CENTRO, KONSTANTINIDIS, LAMDA Development, LAMINAM, Orilina, Reynaers Aluminium, TIMBERSA, TOTO
Providers: al2 (Lounge), Bright (Lighting), ENEA Engineers (Construction)
