| Title |
A Study on the Spatial Expression Characteristics of Liminality in Riken Yamamoto’s Architecture |
| Authors |
왕뤄한(Wang, Ruo-Han) ; 박수빈(Park, Soobeen) |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2026.42.10.99 |
| Keywords |
Yamamoto Riken; Liminality; Liminal Space; Threshold space; Expression Characteristics; Public Space; Private Space |
| Abstract |
As the hybridization of programs and transformations in publicness intensify in contemporary architecture, the boundary between public and
private space has become increasingly complex. This study aims to examine how liminality is expressed in the architectural works of Riken
Yamamoto and how it mediates the relationship between public and private domains. The research was conducted through a literature review
and case study analysis. Six characteristics of liminality continuity, de-boundarying, systematicity, flexibility, community, and placenesswere
established as analytical criteria across physical, structural, and social dimensions, and six representative works by Riken Yamamoto were
analyzed based on drawings, photographs, and project descriptions. The results indicate that Yamamoto’s liminality is not achieved by
eliminating boundaries, but by reorganizing them into transitional spatial structures. At the physical level, continuity and de-boundarying are
expressed through shared circulation, transparent interfaces, atriums, and voids. At the structural level, diverse uses are organized within a
unified spatial system through internal streets, decks, grids, mezzanines, and mixed programs. At the social level, community and placeness
are formed through repeated movement, visual perception, temporary encounters, and dwelling experiences. These findings suggest that
liminality can serve as a design strategy for mediating the relationship between public and private spaces in contemporary architecture. |