About
a+u magazine is the official website of a+u: Architecture and Urbanism. Previously known as ja+u, the website was redeveloped in 2017 with the objective of introducing judiciously gathered works, ideas, and news about architecture from across the globe to motivate and enrich design professionals and practitioners, aspiring architects, educators, and fans of architecture.
In collaboration with our other titles, – Shinkenchiku (New Architecture), Jutakutokushu (Housing Special), and JA (The Japan Architect) – a+u magazine also offers a unique insider’s look at the very latest of Japanese architecture.
a+u magazine is owned by Shinkenchiku-sha Co., Ltd., Japan’s definitive architectural publisher.
About Shinkenchiku-sha
Since 1925, Shinkenchiku-sha has been Japan’s leading architectural publisher. The company’s periodicals include Shinkenchiku (New Architecture), Jutakutokushu (Housing Special), and JA (The Japan Architect). With its sister company, A+U Publishing Co., Ltd., the company is expanding to offer its diverse content to a broad network of architects and designers across the globe.
Our Periodicals
a+u
First published in January 1971, a+u – Architecture and Urbanism – is an architectural magazine in Japanese and English that provides information on architecture around the world to a global readership. As Japan’s only monthly periodical dedicated to disseminating information on architecture around the world, a+u has been widely and actively read by the architecture community since its inaugural issue. The magazine’s research network extends around the world, covering more than 100 countries. It features in-depth reporting on architects and firms in various countries, and each issue is edited from a unique perspective to deliver the most important designs and projects. In addition, essays penned by architects, critics and historians guide the direction of tomorrow’s architecture, greatly influencing the industry inside and outside Japan.
JA
JA – The Japan Architect – was first published in June 1956 and was the only English language periodical that introduced Japanese architecture to an international audience. Since 1991 it has been published quarterly in Japanese and English, expanding its readership both inside and outside of Japan. JA showcases contemporary Japanese architecture with in-depth commentary on the theory and context of the projects. It emphasizes on communicating developments originating in Japan. The magazine surveys the country’s diverse, ever-changing architectural scene, identifies important trends to convey to a wider audience outside Japan, then presents them alongside current, compelling issues.
Shinkenchiku
One of Japan’s leading architectural journals first published in August 1925. Since its inaugural issue Shinkenchiku – New Architecture – has been endorsed by innumerable architects for its detailed presentation of contemporary Japanese architecture with high-quality photos, plans, and drawings. Over time the publication has developed a unique perspective, constantly communicating new trends in architectural thought and design. Architects have recently expanded their work to include urban development, the environment and a host of other fields. They are increasingly making broader contributions to society by exploring the possibilities of modern living through architectural expression. Shinkenchiku will continue to observe these developments and publish the future of architecture in written and visual form.
Jutakutokushu
First published in May 1985, then released monthly starting in May 1986, every issue of Jutakutokushu – Housing Special – interprets ten or more houses with beautiful photography and detailed plans. The houses are approached as vehicles for architectural insight, proposals for new ways of living, and showcases for various techniques and technologies. From the start, the journal has strived to meet the professional needs of residential designers and architects, while also appealing to the interests of a broader audience. Jutakutokushu will continue to communicate the diverse ideas of the house as a form of architecture intimately linked to day-to-day living.
Special Issues, Extra Editions, Books, Catalogs and Promotional Newsletters
In addition to the above periodicals, we also publish extra editions like Japanese Houses: The First Decade of the Century, special issues with detailed plans and drawings such as Takenaka Design Works 2001-2010, large-format monographs for architects like Kenzo Tange, and informative architecture-related books, including NHK Dream Museum: 100 Works of World Architecture. While our periodicals are meant to be currently relevant, these publications approach architecture from a more historical standpoint while also touching on peripheral fields.
In addition to these consumer publications, we also create promotional newsletters for corporations and architectural organizations, commemorative publications, and catalogs on contract. We are able to utilize our extensive photo archive and widespread network in the architecture industry to create materials that continually exceed client expectations.
Japanese Content
Through the Japanese website Shinkenchiku Online, we distribute digital content with an emphasis on Japanese architecture and tie-ins with all of our publications.