The images reveal a conceptual study merging Japan’s rich architectural heritage with contemporary design approaches.

 

Conceptual Approach

Drawing inspiration from Tadao Ando’s minimalistic concrete structures and SANAA’s fluid geometries, the series explores how solids and voids can harmonize through carefully shaped volumes, reflective water elements, and subtle greenery. Traditional Japanese concepts of space such as the interplay of interior and exterior are reimagined via curved pathways and organic openings, creating dynamic boundaries that guide movement while preserving openness.

These four thematic series were generated primarily with Midjourney, where text-to-image prompts referencing Ando’s reinforced concrete, SANAA’s fluid lines, and Japanese gardens yielded unexpected visual explorations. By combining text prompts with reference images, the AI often produces surprising results that spark innovative directions. When stricter volumetric parameters are needed, tools like Comfy Flux and Stable Diffusion (with ControlNet) help align the concepts with real-world constraints. The outcome is a poetic interplay of light, texture, and reflection, blurring the line between sculpture and architecture. Ultimately, this project aims to inspire architects and designers to embrace advanced technologies while honoring the serene beauty and discipline of Japanese spatial philosophy.

 

 

Prompts & Software

Photo of a modern courtyard residence in a suburban neighborhood of Japan, inspired by contemporary minimalist Japanese architecture, during a cloudy day… The structure features raw concrete surfaces with large curved and circular cutouts that frame the serene courtyard and reflective water elements… The composition emphasizes symmetry and void, with the subtle mountain silhouettes in the background softened by mist… Canon L Series lens, 24mm, f/2.8.

Photo of a modern sculptural concrete home in a Japanese residential area, designed with influences from Tadao Ando and brutalist minimalism, in the calm light of early morning… The facade has smooth, pale concrete panels punctuated by oversized geometric openings, reflected in the tranquil water garden below… Bare deciduous trees and low shrubs contrast with the stark surface, enhancing the meditative stillness… Sony G Master lens, 35mm, f/2.8.

Photo of a modern minimalist house inspired by Tadao Ando and SANAA, located in a quiet Japanese suburb during a misty morning… The building is composed of interlocking volumes of smooth, exposed concrete with large, organic cutouts and curved walls that frame a contemplative central courtyard with shallow reflective water… The architectural language blends brutalist strength and ethereal transparency, with seamless glass walls and fluid circulation… Soft ambient light filters through the fog, casting gentle shadows and highlighting the textures of the concrete and water… In the background, neighboring traditional rooftops contrast subtly with the futuristic composition… Zeiss Otus lens, 24mm, f/2.8.

Created with Midjourney, ChatGPT & Archiprompt

 

Historic revivals

The project is the winner of the design competition for the demolition, restoration, and extension of a Mediterranean thermal spa, located in the city of Balaruc-les-Bains. Aware of the challenges and eager to realize its ambitions, the city initiated the rejuvenation of the the O’Balia thermal spa, incorporating it within a broader redevelopment project of the Hespérides site.

 

Preservation of Historical Heritage

Great significance was placed on the site’s history, where numerous traces of archaeological ruins, baths, mosaics, and pieces from ancient statues were found, bearing witness to Balaruc’s Roman origins. The design also takes into consideration the present geology and water elements, establishing a visual connection with the local Thau lagoon.

 

Public and Private Uses

The spa is comprised of large communal areas such as a reception, a gentle activity and collective experience area, a pool hall, a shop as well as intimate individual treatment spaces. It also includes a Sauna Village with steam rooms, a hot spring park with six themed pools and a thermal bath. A large atrium encompasses all administrative functions and has, as a central feature, a spiral staircase made of natural wood.

 

Design Morphology

The design follows pure, geometric forms that construct wide, open spaces. The rigid volumes are interrupted through a series of consecutive gaps, some of which act as open skylights while others as traditional openings, connecting interior and exterior spaces. Semi-outdoor courtyards are designed around different water elements such as fountains and pools. The outdoor courtyard design adapts to the landscape’s topography and contains artificially constructed trails with running water. The material selection follows a Mediterranean aesthetic, with local natural stone being used for wall and floor cladding.