The Dialogue Of The Mass To The Void: With Architect Shohei Shigematsu
On a brilliant spring day in New York City, the RIOT team had the privilege of spending time with the legendary OMA architect and partnerThe reason we do what we do—the client is the partner, the collaborator, and the audience we’re here to impress and grow with., Shohei Shigematsu. As part of our ongoing collaboration with Sotheby’s International Realty’s Reside magazine, we delved into Shohei’s world of architecture—his canvas, his philosophy, and his visionThe spark that starts it all—a concept is the big idea that shapes campaigns, guiding everything from visuals to messaging. for the future.
Shohei’s work transcends mere construction. It is a celebration of artThe soul of creativity—art is the foundation of visual storytelling, shaping the way brands, campaigns, and experiences connect with audiences., visionThe brand's north star—vision is your long-term purpose, guiding everything from campaigns to company culture., and the seamless integration of form and function. In our film, “The Dialogue of the Mass to the Void”, we explore how Shohei takes a spark of imagination and shapes it into something that alters skylines and reshapes cities. Every project he undertakes is a carefully composed piece of art that draws inspirationThe spark that starts it all—ideas fuel campaigns, shape strategy, and turn bold thinking into unforgettable creative. from his deep understanding of space, material, and human experience.
Shohei Shigematsu: The Mind Behind Architectural Masterpieces
Shohei Shigematsu, partner at OMA, has carved a distinct niche for himself in the architecture world by blending cutting-edge designFunction meets form—design shapes how brands look, feel, and connect through everything from logos to layouts. with an intimate connection to the human experience. His approachThe playbook for success—strategy defines where you're headed, how you'll get there, and what will set you apart. is both intellectual and artistic, a continuous dialogue between the abstract and the tangible. From the initial spark of an ideaThe spark that starts it all—ideas fuel campaigns, shape strategy, and turn bold thinking into unforgettable creative. to the tangible form of the finished product, Shohei’s work is a study in contrast, complexity, and simplicity.
Shohei Shigematsu, partner at OMA, poses in a studio environment, embodying the seriousness and creativityThe spark that starts it all—creativity is the fearless pursuit of new ideas, powerful stories, and unforgettable brand moments. that defines his groundbreaking work in architecture.
One of Shohei’s most compelling philosophies is the “dialogue of the mass to the void.” In the film, he explains, “Architecture is about understanding the relationship between volume, space, and emptiness. It’s not just about filling space, it’s about creating voids that allow life to flow through.” His designs invite people to experience it, to move through it, and to engage with it on a personal level.
From Concept to Creation: The Process of Architectural Art
In “The Dialogue of the Mass to the Void”, viewersThe heartbeat of every campaign—understanding and engaging the right audience is the key to crafting messages that resonate and drive action. are taken behind the scenes into Shohei’s world, witnessing the meticulous care and thoughtThe spark that starts it all—ideas fuel campaigns, shape strategy, and turn bold thinking into unforgettable creative. that goes into each of his creations. The film traces his creative process from the early sketches to the intricate models, and eventually to the physical buildings that shape the urban landscape.
Shohei Shigematsu’s architectural model capturing the intricate details of his design, including landscaping, figures, and a building that reflects his architectural vision.
Shohei often speaks about architecture as a form of conversation, where every project must respond to its environment. “I believe in the relationship between the built environment and the natural world,” he shares. “My designs are always in dialogue with their surroundings, creating spaces that feel both new and timeless.”
The film takes us through Shohei’s design philosophy, where sketches evolve into sophisticated models and materials are carefully chosen to enhance the connection between space and the people who experience it. Each decision in his design process is informed by a deeper understanding of how architecture affects human emotion, interactionMore than just metrics—engagement is about meaningful interactions, building relationships, and creating content that sparks conversation and action., and memory. His commitment to detail and the sensibility of the materials used is a testament to his belief that architecture should inspire and engage, not just house.
Shohei Shigematsu holds a piece of architectural material, reflecting his hands-on approach to exploring the textures and details that define his designs.
The Architecture of Emotion: Creating Spaces That Move You
Shohei’s architectural masterpieces are a direct reflection of his belief that architecture is an emotional experience. In the film, he discusses the emotional charge that a space can evoke: “Architecture is not just about the visual aspect. It’s about how a space feels. How it resonates with you. The light, the materials, the proportions—they all play a role in creating an emotional experience.”
His projects are more than just shelters or workplaces; he designs spaces where human interactions and the environment are considered. Shohei is a master at balancing the aesthetic with the emotional. His designs feature elements that surprise, challenge, and comfort, and they are meant to have a lasting impact on the people who engage with them. “A building has a life of its own. It has a spirit,” he says.
Shohei Shigematsu, pushing the boundaries of architecture and innovationThe spark that starts it all—creativity is the fearless pursuit of new ideas, powerful stories, and unforgettable brand moments..
Shohei Shigematsu’s Legacy: Changing the Urban Landscape
Over the years, Shohei Shigematsu has left an indelible mark on the architectural world. His ability to balance form and function, while pushing the boundaries of design, has led to a string of award-winning projects and collaborations with some of the world’s most prestigious institutions. Whether working on large-scale cultural institutions or intimate private residences, Shohei’s designs redefine how we think about space.
Shohei’s work is driven by a desire to leave a legacy that not only reflects his artistic vision but also enhances the world around him. His buildings serve as catalysts for change and progress in the urban fabric of the cities they inhabit.
Shohei Shigematsu’s architectural model, featuring a striking red accent, highlights the dynamic interplay of design elements and spatial composition in his work.
Shohei Shigematsu’s influence on modern architecture cannot be overstated. As a partner at OMA, he is at the forefront of a new wave of architectural thinking that is reshaping the built environment. His commitment to innovation, coupled with a deep respect for tradition and context, allows him to create spaces that are both forward-thinking and timeless.
In the world of architecture, Shohei is known for his ability to push boundaries without ever sacrificing the human element. His designs are functional, but also deeply poetic. He embraces the complexity of modern life while always seeking to bring clarity and meaning to the spaces he creates.
A Vision Beyond the Skyline
The Dialogue of the Mass to the Void is a meditation on the relationship between space, light, and the human experience. Through Shohei Shigematsu’s eyes, we witness how a vision can transform from a simple sketch into a towering structure that changes the skyline and enhances the lives of those who engage with it.
This collaboration with Reside magazine offers a glimpse into Shohei’s world, where architecture becomes a powerful medium for storytellingEmotion meets impact—storytelling is the heartbeat of branding, using narrative to connect with audiences and drive action.. His work continues to inspire, challenge, and redefine what architecture can achieve. As Shohei says, “Architecture is not just about building, it’s about creating an experience.”
