ABOUT

Tsuruta Architects was established by Taro Tsuruta, an experienced Japanese architect who gained his diploma from the Architectural Association. Tsuruta worked with leading London design practices on complex multi-award winning projects before setting up his own studio to offer clients a more personal service.

The practice is known for its original designs that combine precise construction knowledge with a deep respect for light, materials, context, and the rhythms of everyday life. Many projects make use of digital fabrication and flat-pack assembly methods to achieve efficient, high-quality outcomes while maintaining strong design intent.

Tsuruta Architects gained international recognition for House of Trace, which received the RIBA Stephen Lawrence Prize and was nominated for the EU Mies van der Rohe Award. The practice has continued to receive critical acclaim, including multiple RIBA, Wood, and NLA awards.

Taro contributes to the architectural community through teaching and awards jury work. He has lectured at the Bartlett and the University of Greenwich, served on RIBA judging panels including as Chair of RIBA House of the Year 2022, and was appointed as a jury member for the 2024 King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism.

INTERVIEW by DETAIL magazine. pdf

APPROACH

At Tsuruta Architects, we believe that architecture is more than just creating beautiful structures; it is about enriching the lives of users and occupiers while preserving the memory of a place. Our design approach is grounded in a deep understanding of context and a strong emphasis on the well-being of those who interact with our spaces. Drawing from our international experiences and daily life, we blend diverse influences to create bespoke designs that transform ordinary spaces into something extraordinary. Our commitment to sustainability drives us to use materials thoughtfully, ensuring a harmonious integration of architecture and the environment. As we embrace the possibilities of modern technology, we leverage digital fabrication techniques to craft stunning projects with efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Through engaging conversations with our clients and meticulous site investigations, we uncover the full potential of each space. We cherish every detail, from cherished memories to the design of humble nuts and bolts, to create spaces that evoke emotion and inspire. By seamlessly blending old and new elements, we reveal the essence of architecture, introducing new layers of functionality for people to relish. Throughout every phase of a project, we combine technology with unwavering dedication to ensure swift and high-quality construction. Our passion for architecture and our commitment to our clients drive us to constantly innovate and deliver exceptional designs that stand the test of time. Join us on this architectural journey, where each project embodies the memories of its place, enriches lives, and harmoniously blends tradition and contemporary advancements. Together, let's create spaces that resonate with the essence of the human experience.

Please write to us with your query:info@tsurutaarchitects.com

TSURUTA ARCHITECTS AWARDS TO DATE:

-Merit Award from the Wood Design and Building Awards 2022-2023 of the Canadian Wood Council

-Dezeen Award longlisted 2022

-New London Architecure Award Highly Commended in the DWELLING category and for the MAYOR's Prize, 2021

-RIBA Stephan Lawrence Prize Shortlisted, 2021

-RIBA London Regional Award, Small project of the year winner 2021

-RIBA London Regional Award, winner, 2021

-Wood Awards Highly Commended, 2021

-Dezeen Award 2020 Longlisted

-Wood Awards under the Small Projects category, winner, 2020

-Wood Design and Building Awards by The Canadian Wood Council, Honor award, 2019

-Building Design The Architect of the Year,  Refurbishment Architect of the Year Award,  winner, 2018

-European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture, Mies van der Rohe Award, nomination, 2017

-RIBA London Regional Award, winner, 2017

-RIBA Stephen Lawrence Prize, winner, 2016

-RIBA National Award, winner, 2016

-RIBA London Award, winner, 2016

-RIBA London Small Project of the Year, winner, 2016

-New London Architecture Don’t Move Improve, Overall winner, 2016

-New London Architecture Don’t Move Improve, Most innovative award, 2016

-BDA Brick Award, Best refurbishment project, 2015

-AJ small project award shortlist, 2016

-Wienerberger Brick Award nomination, 2016

-RIBA House of the Year longlist, 2016