Japanese Architect Shigeru Ban has ramped up his efforts to support Ukraine, which remains embroiled in the ongoing Russian invasion. Ban’s innovative partition system, made of paper, has been deployed in shelters for Ukrainian refugees to protect their privacy, and he has also provided stoves to those in need. Looking ahead, he is collaborating with a Polish university to develop affordable housing for post-war reconstruction. Additionally, Ban is working on the design of a hospital in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv and is actively involved in fundraising for the project.

During a press conference held on the 10th of this month in Tokyo, in conjunction with the Praemium Imperiale awards (organized by the Japan Art Association), Ban discussed his upcoming challenges. “My most challenging project is supporting Ukraine,” he stated. “We are developing low-cost reconstruction housing in cooperation with a Polish university, and simultaneously designing a hospital in Lviv, as the existing facilities have exceeded their capacity.”

The planned hospital in Lviv is expected to cover a total area of 25,000 square meters. Ban explained, “We are using cross-laminated timber that is available in Ukraine. Although Ukraine’s current building regulations do not permit such construction, the mayor of Lviv made a bold decision to use EU building regulations, as Ukraine aspires to join the EU. I have traveled to Ukraine numerous times and collaborated with Ukrainian architects. Without receiving any design fees, I am also assisting with fundraising efforts.”

Touching on Japan’s dependence on the global community, Ban emphasized, “There can be no peace unless the world achieves happiness.” He expressed his desire to continue contributing through his work in architecture, even if just in a small way. (2024/09/13)