Osaka born and raised Tadao Ando is undoubtedly one of the best architects of our time and a man who, despite never getting an official degree in architecture, has gone on to win a multitude of medals, prizes and awards – amongst which the (equivalent of a Nobel) Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1995. Since 1973 he has completed an extensive list of  projects, mainly involving public structures (such as churches, museums & theaters) and mostly based in his native Japan (with few exceptions, starting from 1990 onwards). His work is characterized by a signature use of unadorned concrete and the incorporation of natural elements (such as water & light) in his designs. Stone, wood and glass also tend to play a major role and can be found in most of his projects. If you are not aware of any of his work and are interested in learning more, you might want to start by checking out one of his best known projects: The Church of Light (1989). Meanwhile, here’s a look at his first residential NYC project …