"I Am Disappointed in Architects" Shigeru Ban on Socially Conscious Architecture in Louisiana Channel InterviewIn a recent interview with Louisiana Channel, acclaimed Japanese architect Shigeru Ban shared his perspectives on architecture, his journey in the field, and his dedication to socially responsible design. Known for his innovative use of materials such as paper and timber, Ban has spent much of his career creating solutions for disaster-stricken communities and displaced populations around the world.Save this picture!Ban's interest in architecture began at an early age, inspired by his admiration for carpenters. However, it was during his preparation for art university that he was introduced to the work of John Hejduk, which motivated him to study at the Cooper Union School of Architecture in New York. Over the years, Ban's career has evolved from designing for private clients to addressing global issues through humanitarian projects.Save this picture! I always look for the problem to solve by design. So if I'm given an unlimited budget with huge flat space or land, I don't know what to do. I always try to look for some good advantage and disadvantage of the condition to use as a reference to design. -- Shigeru Ban Related Article From Paper Tube Shelters to Timber Innovations: Shigeru Ban's Complete Works Explored by Philip Jodidio for Taschen One of Ban's most significant contributions to the field is his development of paper tube structures, which he began exploring in the 1980s. These inexpensive, lightweight, and widely available materials became a cornerstone of his work in designing temporary shelters for those affected by natural disasters. His first major project in this realm was for Rwandan refugees in 1994, where he partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to create shelters using paper tubes. Since then, his efforts have included projects for evacuees in Turkey and Syria, as well as affordable housing solutions for Ukrainian refugees.Save this picture! I always try to take advantage of the context, the location of the building. I like to analyze what is existing to take advantage of the context into the architecture and try to combine inside and outside. -- Shigeru Ban Ban also discusses his approach to architecture, emphasizing the importance of context and resourcefulness in design. He shared that he avoids being influenced by trends, instead focusing on solving problems specific to each project's conditions. This approach extends beyond humanitarian projects to his work on cultural and public buildings, such as the Centre Pompidou-Metz in France and the Swatch/Omega Campus in Switzerland, where he incorporates sustainable materials and adaptable designs.Save this picture!While Ban's work often aligns with environmental principles, he has stated that sustainability is not his primary motivation. Instead, he focuses on minimizing waste and developing practical, efficient solutions to architectural challenges. Ban's career and philosophy are now the subject of a comprehensive monograph, Shigeru Ban: Complete Works 1985Today, authored by Philip Jodidio and published by Taschen. In fact, the edition highlights Ban's diverse body of work, from disaster relief shelters to innovative public buildings, offering insights into his design process and the evolution of his practice.Save this picture!Interviews offer valuable insights into the minds of architects, shedding light on their creative processes, philosophies, and the broader societal impacts of their work. In other similar news, British architect David Chipperfield discusses the challenges and inspirations of living by the sea in his Louisiana Channel interview, describing the environment as both "unforgiving and tough." Similarly, Ali Karimi of Civil Architecture reflects on "creating architecture in an uncivil time," emphasizing the role of architects in addressing sociopolitical tensions through design. In a conversation with Colectivo C733, winners of the 2024 Obel Award, the team highlights their belief that "architecture is a work of generosity," focusing on projects that foster community and inclusivity.Image gallerySee allShow lessAbout this authorNour FakharanyAuthorCite: Nour Fakharany. ""I Am Disappointed in Architects" Shigeru Ban on Socially Conscious Architecture in Louisiana Channel Interview" 16 Jan 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1025839/i-am-disappointed-in-architects-shigeru-ban-on-socially-conscious-architecture-in-louisiana-channel-interview&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream