Minoru Yamasaki, born on January 12, 1912, in Washington, was the son of John Tsunejiro Yamasaki and Hana Yamasaki, who were first-generation Japanese immigrants. Growing up, Yamasaki developed a passion for architecture, which eventually led him to pursue a career in the field.
Yamasaki graduated from the University of Washington's architectural program in 1934, where he was greatly influenced by the renowned architect Lionel Pries. Following his graduation, he moved to New York City, where he earned an advanced degree in architecture from New York University.
Yamasaki's career began to take off as he gained recognition for his unique design aesthetic, which incorporated elements of New Formalism. He quickly rose to prominence in the architectural world, becoming known for his innovative and groundbreaking designs.
One of Yamasaki's most iconic projects was the design of the Twin Towers of the original World Trade Center in New York City. His design for the Pruitt-Igoe housing project in St. Louis, which comprised 33 buildings, also garnered significant attention. However, Pruitt-Igoe became infamous for its issues with crime and segregation, leading to its eventual demolition in the 1970s.
Yamasaki's work was not without controversy, as he often faced criticism for his design choices. Despite this, he remained dedicated to his craft, pushing the boundaries of traditional architecture and paving the way for future generations of architects.
Yamasaki's personal life was marked by a series of marriages. He married his first wife twice, once in 1941 and again in 1969, and was married to two other women in between. Despite his tumultuous personal life, Yamasaki remained focused on his work, using architecture as a form of self-expression and creativity.
Throughout his career, Yamasaki was hailed as one of the masters of New Formalism, alongside fellow architect Edward Stone. His innovative designs and forward-thinking approach to architecture have left a lasting impact on the field, inspiring future generations of architects to think outside the box and push the boundaries of traditional design.
Minoru Yamasaki's legacy continues to live on through his iconic structures and groundbreaking designs, solidifying his place as one of the most influential architects of the 20th century.