Kengo Kuma Reflects on Architectural Inspiration and Restoration at Angers Cathedral Gallery

In an interview published in April 2026, architect Kengo Kuma discussed his design philosophy and recent work on the gallery at Cathédrale Saint-Maurice in Angers, France. Kuma emphasized a dialogue with place over ego, drawing inspiration from topography, light, wind, and water flow. He revealed that his first profound architectural experience occurred around age four in a Christian school chapel in Tokyo, where verticality and colored light through stained glass windows moved him deeply. This early encounter continues to influence his designs. For the Angers project, which involved restoring a stone building, Kuma chose prefabricated concrete with visible pebbles and sand to evoke the Loire River's nature, opting for mineral materials to harmonize with the existing structure. He noted the technical challenges of such restorations, including treating damaged parts, reinforcing fragile areas, and adapting to contemporary constraints while preserving historical beauty. Kuma also connected architecture to music, citing his piano-playing background and admiration for Debussy's nature-inspired compositions. He described the gallery's porches, resembling rainbows, as unintentional references to natural forms, and highlighted the engawa concept—a transitional space between interior and exterior found globally. The interview appeared in Beaux Arts Magazine's issue 502, alongside features on Henri Matisse and street art.