Shigeru Ban. Complete Works 1985–Today

Shigeru Ban is a Japanese architect known for his innovative and sustainable designs. This monograph showcases his completed buildings, new projects, and future outlook, including the Swatch/Omega Campus in Switzerland and La Seine Musicale in France. Ban's work is characterized by a quest to understand buildings and a commitment to save and use otherwise discarded materials, and he has built shelters for refugees in Rwanda and Sri Lanka.

Format: Hardback
Length: 696 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2024
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

A captivating exploration into the works and mind of renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban is presented in the monograph "Shigeru Ban: Complete Works and Projects." Authored by Philip Jodidio, this comprehensive volume delves into the studio Shigeru Ban's extensive portfolio, encompassing both completed buildings and ongoing projects. Jodidio takes readers on a journey through the years, tracing the evolution of an architect who has established himself as a true visionary with architectural marvels that surpass innovation, elegance, and sensibility.

Beginning with early buildings that showcased innovative uses of paper tubes as structural elements, such as the Curtain Wall House in Tokyo and the Wall-Less House in Naganos countryside, the monograph showcases Ban's diverse range of projects. It also features numerous recent versatile endeavors, including a two-story penthouse atop a 140-year-old New York City landmark cast-iron house, the Swatch/Omega Campus in Switzerland, and La Seine Musicale, a concert hall seamlessly integrated into Jean Nouvel's master plan for the island Île Seguin in France.

One of the defining characteristics of Ban's work is his relentless pursuit of understanding buildings and his commitment to salvaging and repurposing otherwise discarded materials. This led him to develop inventive solutions and elevate paper to the status of a staple material in several of his projects. Alongside his architectural prowess, Ban has also played a significant role in giving Japanese architecture a global presence while maintaining his distinctive architectural handwriting. His ability to create a vast array of projects worldwide has solidified his reputation as a Pritzker Prize-winning architect.

However, Ban's impact extends beyond his architectural achievements. He has demonstrated a deep sense of compassion and dedication to those in need. Through his humanitarian efforts, he has built shelters for refugees in Rwanda and Sri Lanka, utilizing his paper tube structures to provide quick and efficient emergency accommodations in crisis situations. His problem-solving skills and generous spirit have made him a valuable asset in times of need.

In conclusion, "Shigeru Ban: Complete Works and Projects" offers a profound insight into the life and work of a visionary architect who has left an indelible mark on the world of architecture. Through his dedication to innovation, elegance, and sensibility, Ban has created architectural marvels that transcend time and space. His commitment to understanding buildings, repurposing materials, and addressing humanitarian needs has demonstrated his profound impact on society. This monograph serves as a testament to his enduring legacy and a celebration of his remarkable talent.

Weight: 7418g
Dimension: 345 x 474 x 72 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836589345
Edition number: Multilingual ed