Who Is Minoru Yamasaki? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Minoru Yamasaki was born on December 1, 1912, in Seattle, Washington, and became one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. He garnered fame for his innovative designs, including the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pacific Science Center in Seattle. With an impactful career spanning several decades, Yamasaki's architectural philosophy focused on the integration of humanism and nature, merging functionality with aesthetic appeal. Despite passing away on February 7, 1986, Yamasaki's legacy endures through his landmark buildings, characterized by minimalist design and a deep appreciation for light and space.
| Occupation | Architects |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 1, 1912 |
| Age | 73 Years |
| Birth Place | Seattle, Washington, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 6 February, 1986 |
| Died Place | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
Popularity
Minoru Yamasaki's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific physical statistics for Minoru Yamasaki might not be commonly documented, he was typically of average height for men of his era, standing around 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm). His weight was proportionate to his height during his lifetime, reflecting the standard build of many prominent male architects of that time, who often dedicated themselves to their craft over personal fitness regimes.
One particular design challenge related to the efficacy of the elevator system, which became unique in the world when it was first opened for service. Yamasaki employed the fastest elevators at the time, running at 1,700 ft per minute.
Instead of placing a traditional large cluster of full-height elevator shafts in the core of each tower, Yamasaki created the Twin Towers' "Skylobby" system.
The Skylobby design created three separate, connected elevator systems which would serve different zones of the building, depending on which floor was chosen, saving approximately 70% of the space which would have been required for traditional shafts. The space saved was then used for additional office space.
Internally, each office floor was a vast open space unimpeded by support columns, ready to be subdivided as the tenants might choose.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Yamasaki was married to the talented artist and architectural designer, S. Allen Shapiro, with whom he shared a passionate partnership not only in love but also in their professional pursuits. Together, they navigated the challenges of the architectural world, supporting each other in a field where both faced significant scrutiny and breakthrough projects. Their family life included a close-knit circle, as they often collaborated with other architects and builders, creating a supportive community that fostered creativity and innovation.
In part to escape anti-Japanese prejudice, he moved to Manhattan in 1934, with $40 and no job prospects. He wrapped dishes for an importing company until he found work as a draftsman and engineer.
He enrolled at New York University for a master's degree in architecture and got a job with the architecture firm Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, designers of the Empire State Building. The firm helped Yamasaki avoid internment as a Japanese-American during World War II, and he himself sheltered his parents in New York City.
Yamasaki was politically active during his early years, particularly in efforts to relocate Japanese Americans affected by the internment program in the United States during World War II.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Yamasaki's estimated net worth reflected his successful career as an architect, with a valuation of several million dollars. Projects like the World Trade Center contributed significantly to his financial success, earning him substantial fees and commissions. Although exact figures about his salary specifics have not been disclosed, it is evident that his contributions to architecture translated into a comfortable financial status during his lifetime.
The family later moved to Auburn, Washington, and he graduated from Garfield Senior High School in Seattle. He enrolled in the University of Washington program in architecture in 1929, and graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) in 1934. During his college years, he was strongly encouraged by faculty member Lionel Pries.
He earned money to pay for his tuition by working at a salmon cannery in Alaska, working five summers and earning $50 a month, plus 25 cents an hour in overtime pay.
Career, Business and Investments
Yamasaki's career is best highlighted by his role in redefining modern architectural practice across the United States. After forming his firm in 1945, he gained notable recognition for his commitment to design aesthetics that encompassed sensitivity to environment and community. His most famous projects include the stunning World Trade Center, which, when completed in 1975, became an iconic symbol of New York City.
Additionally, Yamasaki's work extended beyond commercial architecture; he was known for designing corporate buildings, hospitals, and university facilities. His innovative use of materials and forms set a new precedent in the architectural industry. After his death, many of his works remained as critical examples of mid-20th-century architecture.
In 1945, Yamasaki moved to Detroit, where he secured a position with Smith, Hinchman & Grylls (SHG) as the chief designer.
At the time, SHG was the oldest as well as one of the largest and most prestigious architectural firms in Detroit and the United States, with recently completed projects including Detroit landmarks such as the Penobscot and Guardian Buildings. Yamasaki left the firm in 1949, and started his own partnership.
He worked from Birmingham and Troy, Michigan. One of the first projects he designed at his own firm was Ruhl's Bakery at 7 Mile Road and Monica Street in Detroit.
Social Network
Though Yamasaki did not have a direct presence on social media platforms, his architectural influence remains prevalent in discussions on various online forums and architecture-focused platforms. In today’s digital age, one can find extensively curated pages and profiles discussing his life and works, particularly through websites dedicated to architecture and design history.
In the 1950s, Yamasaki was commissioned by the Reynolds Company to design an aluminum-wrapped building in Southfield, Michigan, which would "symbolize the auto industry's past and future progress with aluminum." The three-story glass building wrapped in aluminum, known as the Reynolds Metals Company's Great Lakes Sales Headquarters Building, was al
so supposed to reinforce the company's main product and showcase its admirable characteristics of strength and beauty.
Education
Yamasaki's educational background played a pivotal role in shaping his architectural viewpoint. He attended the University of Washington, where he earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1934. He later pursued advanced studies at New York University, where he fortified his understanding of form, space, and innovative design techniques that would define his future projects.
In summary, Minoru Yamasaki's life and legacy as an esteemed architect continue to resonate. His enduring impact on the field of architecture is celebrated, ensuring that his name remains synonymous with groundbreaking design and a humanistic approach to building environments well into the future.
Minoru Yamasaki (山崎 實) was an American architect, best known for designing the original World Trade Center in New York City and several other large-scale projects. Yamasaki was one of the most prominent architects of the 20th century. He and fellow architect Edward Durell Stone are generally considered to be the two master practitioners of "New Formalism".
