Klein Dytham architecture

Astrid Klein was born in Italy to German parents, schooled in France, educated in Britain and since 1988 has lived and worked in Japan.

After a Masters degree from the Royal College of Art in London, Astrid was drawn to Japan by the simplicity of design, attention to detail and the freedom from traditional constraints. In Tokyo she began working for Toyo Ito and in 1991 she co-founded Klein Dytham architecture with Mark Dytham.

Astrid is a frequent guest at international conferences on design and architecture and has lectured or held teaching positions at universities in Japan, the UK, the USA, Australia and throughout Europe.

Mark Dytham studied architecture at the Royal College of Art in London. He traveled to Tokyo in 1989 and found work with Toyo Ito. He and business partner Astrid Klein soon established KDa, working freely across disciplines that include architecture, interiors, furniture, installations, and events. KDa’s build work includes flagship retail stores, restaurants, resort facilities, offices, and private residences.

KDa has no stylistic recipe, preferring to work with clients to develop tailored solutions. For KDa, Tokyo is a constant source of inspiration; their award-winning projects, including Daikanyama T-SITE bookstore and Ginza Place, have become landmarks.

A licensed architect and interior designer with a B.Arch. from Yokohama National University, Hisayama has been with Klein Dytham architecture since 1996. His deep understanding of the KDa approach complements his broad experience in all phases of the design process and extensive knowledge of materials and construction. He brings a strong artistic sensibility to his position as the most senior member of KDa. He has been directly or indirectly involved in nearly all of our projects including DAIKANYAMA T-SITE, SHONAN T-SITE, GINZA PLACE and RISONARE Yatsugatake. A Part-time lecturer at Kanto Gakuin University and Kuwasawa Design School.