Thresholds in the Pluralistic Architecture of Tadao Ando

Ando's pluralistic architecture can be distinguished by its diverse forms, and suggestion of a powerful outward vector. Diversified spaces resulting from such pluralistic character generate distinctive transitional spots referred to as 'thresholds'. Such spots are key features in understanding the attraction and uniqueness of his architecture. This study aims to clarify the typology of the thresholds in Ando's pluralistic works. First, the characteristics of his pluralistic architecture are discussed and then, a number of factors for the analysis of thresholds are clarified. According to these factors, thresholds in selected buildings are analyzed. As a result, four types of threshold are clarified.