Step into the fascinating world of Shigeru Ban, a Japanese architect celebrated for blending innovation, elegance, and humanity in his work. In this lively XXL monograph (another big, big book), author Philip Jodidio takes readers on a journey through Ban’s groundbreaking career, exploring his most anticipated projects, recently completed marvels, and a glimpse into what’s next for his visionary studio.
From early experiments with paper tubes as structural elements to redefining the very concept of walls with projects like the Curtain Wall House in Tokyo and the Wall-Less House in Nagano, Ban’s work is a testament to bold creativity. Recent highlights include a two-story penthouse atop a 140-year-old cast-iron building in New York City, the sleek Swatch/Omega Campus in Switzerland, and the Seine Musicale, a breathtaking concert hall on Île Seguin, France.
Ban’s genius lies not just in his architectural artistry but in his commitment to sustainability and compassion. He turns discarded materials into design treasures and has made paper a star of his craft, proving that innovation can be both aesthetically pleasing and eco-friendly. His projects span the globe, and his iconic style has reshaped the image of Japanese architecture, while remaining unmistakably his own.
Even with a Pritzker Prize under his belt, Ban hasn’t lost touch with his humanitarian spirit. He has built refugee shelters in Rwanda and Sri Lanka, and used his ingenious paper tube structures to create emergency housing in crisis zones like Fukushima and Ukraine. With every project, Ban redefines what architecture can achieve, proving that design isn’t just about buildings—it’s about making the world better. This monograph is more than a book: it’s a celebration of an architect who continues to push boundaries, solve problems, and inspire. Available now from Taschen.