Pritzker Architecture Prize 2014 to Shigeru Ban - Several projects with UPM

(UPM, Helsinki, 27 March 2014) - Shigeru Ban, the renowned Japanese architect, has been awarded the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2014. The purpose of the prize is to recognize living architects for excellence in built work and who make a significant and consistent contribution to humanity. UPM and Shigeru Ban have worked together on several projects since 2007.

The citation from the Pritzker Prize jury underscores Ban’s experimental approach to common materials:

“His creative approach and innovation, especially related to building materials and structures, not merely good intentions, are present in all his works.”

“He is especially known for his structural innovations and the creative use of unconventional materials like bamboo, fabric, paper, and composites of recycled paper fiber and plastics.”

Design co-operation with UPM ProFi

To help the earthquake victims in Japan, architect Shigeru Ban designed emergency houses Onagawa town in the Tohuko-region, which was severely hit by a tsunami in spring 2011. The corridors and outside decking were built from UPM ProFi Deck.

The successful co-operation of UPM, Artek, and Shigeru Ban started back in 2007. Ban, a forerunner in ecological architecture, designed the Artek Pavilion, made from UPM ProFi, for the Triennale garden in Milan, Italy. After Milan, the pavilion was erected in Helsinki, reconstructed for Design Miami, and sold at Sotheby's Important 20th Century Design sale in 2008.

In 2007, Shigeru Ban designed a temporary bridge over the Gardon River in southern France. The bridge was built from 281 cardboard tubes with a 4-inch diameter and steps made from UPM ProFi Deck boards.

In 2009, Mr. Ban designed 10-UNIT SYSTEM chair from the UPM ProFi composite material for Artek. In 2010, UPM ProFi Deck was used in the balconies of Metal Shutter Houses in New York City by the Shigeru Ban office.

UPM congratulates Mr. Shigeru Ban for the Prizker Architecture Prize 2014.

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Shigeru Ban Architects
http://www.shigerubanarchitects.com/

Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate 2014
http://www.pritzkerprize.com/laureates/2014

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