Photo: Morley Von Sternberg
ABOUT US
Tsuruta Architects was established by Taro Tsuruta, an experienced Japanese architect who gained his diploma from the Architectural Association. Previously Tsuruta had worked with leading London design practices on large complex projects such as Portcullis House in Westminster before setting up his own studio.
Taro Tsuruta, was born and raised in Japan and trained in both Japan and the UK. His design reflects and respects both the culture of the East and the West. Highly qualified and competent studio members work with Taro to provide a fully committed design to site delivery service in the UK and abroad.
The practice has gained numerous industry awards, recently RIBA National Award 2021, RIBA London small projects of the year 2021, Wood Award 2020, most notably House of Trace received RIBA Stephen Lawrence Prize 2016 and was nominated for the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture Mies van der Rohe Award 2017. Our Projects have been written about in numerous publications.
Interview by DETAIL magazine
APPROACH
Tsuruta Architects have delivered outstanding projects. We are a RIBA Chartered Practice offering the full range of architectural services including consultancy, feasibility, planning, detailed design, and full project management and contract administration. Our approach is based on understanding our clients’ needs and forming long-lasting relationships.
We draw our influences from studying, working, and travelling internationally and from daily life. Our bespoke designs use materials sparingly to turn ordinary spaces into something special. We use modern techniques like a digital fabrication to create beautiful and sustainable buildings, efficiently and cost-effectively.
Our conversations with you and our detailed site investigations reveal the full potential of each space. We celebrate incidental discoveries – from memory to the design of a humble nut or bolt. We are precise about how old and new structures will meet, exposing essential elements and creating new layers and functionality for people to enjoy. With technology and our strong commitment during every phase, we help construction happen swiftly and deliver higher quality sustainable projects.
Please write to us with your project inquiry.
AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS TO DATE
RIBA National Award, winner, 2021
RIBA London Small Project of the Year, winner, 2021
RIBA London Regional Award, winner, 2021
Wood Awards under the Small Projects category, winner, 2020
Dezeen Award long list, 2022
Dezeen Award long list, 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
Wood Award highly commended, 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
AJ small project award shortlist, 2016
Wienerberger Brick Award nomination, 2016
RIBA House of the Year longlist, 2016
BDA Brick Award, Best refurbishment project, 2015