Shigeru Ban | Paper Tubes Structures

The pioneer in using paper tubes in architecture is the Japanese architect Shigeru Ban. In order to expand the technology of the pop-up and design a building using paper tubes, I examine few of Ban`s projects to familiarize myself better with the method and technology.

1) Library of a Poet - Japan

- The paper tubes used in the library are 100mm in diameter and 12mm thick.

- The paper tubes are connected by 100x100mm wooden blocks braced with post-tensioned steel rods diagonally and inside of the tubes.

2) Paper Log House - Japan

- Its structure was made of paper tubes with a diameter of 108mm and a thickness of 4mm, placed next to each other and connected to each other with self-adhesive sponge tape. For additional support, steel rods were placed horizontally into the cardboard tubes.

- The walls were attached to the floor boards by means of wooden pegs.

3) Takatori Paper Church - Japan

- The plan (10 x 15m) is enclosed within a skin of corrugated, polycarbonate sheeting.

- The interior of the church was created out of 58 paper tubes (330mm in diameter,15mm thick and 5m high).

- The roof of the church was made of tent material.