Centerbrook Architects Lecture Series Presents Takashi Yanai, Faia With “Outside In: New California Modernism”

The Essex Library continues its design lecture series with L.A.-based architect Takashi Yanai, Partner at Ehrlich, Yanai, Rhee Chaney Architects, at 7 p.m. on Dec. 4, Essex Library on Zoom. “Outside-In” is a term that encompasses EYRC Architects’ residential design philosophy. It begins with the idea that a home should have a strong connection to its setting, through physical connections to the outdoors, often blurring the lines between interior and exterior space. It is also about how they bring exterior influences and inspiration into the work. The talk will describe these two aspects to their design approach.

Takashi Yanai has been the EYRC Residential Studio Director since 2004. Takashi is also currently leading EYRC’s San Francisco Studio. Prior to practice, Takashi was a design journalist and editor at GA Houses in Tokyo where his work and travels provided the seeds for his design philosophy. Today his work is rooted in its contemplative relationship to landscape and is a continuation of the California Modernist ethos infused with reinterpretations of traditional Japanese elements. In 2017 he was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows in recognition of his residential work, which articulates how architecture can “connect man and nature through masterful siting and exceptional craft.” Takashi serves on the SFMOMA Photography Accessions as well as the Architecture+Design Accessions Committees and has also been appointed the Chair of the National AIA Committee on Design for 2021.

His professional activities, travels and personal inspirations are well-documented and widely followed (57,000 followers) on his Instagram account @t_yanai. Takashi has a degree in Literature with distinction from the University of California at Berkeley and a Masters in Architecture from the Harvard Graduate School of Design.

This Zoom meeting is free and open to the public. Registration is required. For more information and to register, see the Essex Library’s website at: www.youressexlibrary.org or call the Library at (860) 767-1560.