ABOUT US
Kodai and Associates was founded by Yuichi Kodai and Claudia Maggi in Kyoto, Japan, and later established in Zurich in 2018. Rooted in Kyoto’s cultural philosophy and a deep respect for heritage, we create spaces that integrate architecture, interiors, and gardens into a cohesive whole, guided by the principles of Gesamtkunstwerk.
The studio’s approach is informed by Yuichi Kodai’s experience at Herzog & de Meuron and his leadership at SANDWICH Inc. in Kyoto, where he collaborated with artists and directed award-winning projects such as Kohtei at the Shinshoji Zen Museum and Gardens.
Since its inception, the studio has pursued a design philosophy that merges art, architecture, and landscape, reflecting a dialogue between Eastern and Western influences. Our projects span Switzerland, Europe, Japan, and beyond, ranging from cultural institutions and private residences to exhibition and garden design.
Each project is approached as a unique narrative, shaped by the site, the client’s vision, and the surrounding environment — respecting the layers of memory and culture embedded in place.
Photo: Michel Comte
Yuichi Kodai Co-Founder / Architect * Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) * Architecture Registration Board (ARB) Born in Kyoto, Japan He founded Kodai and Associates in 2018. He graduated from the Architectural Association in London and worked with Herzog & de Meuron before establishing the architecture department at the contemporary art studio Sandwich Inc. in Kyoto and later working at Hildebrand Studios in Zurich. Teaching: * Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), Visiting Assistant Professor * Kyoto University of Art and Design, Architecture Course, Fine Art Course * Kurashiki Art and Science University, Fine Arts Course Earlier Projects with Herzog & de Meuron: * TATE Modern, London * Perez Art Museum Miami, Miami * Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford * BBVA Headquarters, Madrid * 1111 Lincoln Road, Miami * Archi di Luce, Lugano * Other International Projects
Claudia Maggi Architect / Co-Founder * Architecture Registration Board (ARB) Born in Harrogate, United Kingdom She founded Kodai and Associates in 2018. She graduated from Architectural Association in London and worked for the American practice Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) in London. She worked on a number of high-rise and high-profiled confidential projects developing her project management skills through all stages of work. Earlier Projects with Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) * Heron Tower, London * Vauxhall Tower, London * Bishopsgate Tower, London * other confidential projects
