(b Tokyo, Feb 20, 1924). Japanese architect. He graduated from the University of Tokyo (1946) where he later taught both architecture and urban planning. He then worked in the studio of Kenzō Tange in Tokyo, assisting on many important post-war projects including the Hiroshima Peace Centre (1955), until he began his own practice in Tokyo in 1960. Otani’s works are characterized by a monumental scale, dramatic expression of structure and a clear hierarchy of structure and spaces. His best-known building is undoubtedly the Kyoto International Conference Hall (1966), which was the result of a national competition. The innovative structural system of slanting columns and precast walls recalls traditional roof forms and methods of wood construction in Japan. Other works include the Tokyo Children’s Cultural Centre (1964), the Kanazawa Institute of Technology (1969) in Ishikawa prefecture and the Kawaramachi housing project in Kawasaki (1970)....