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$4m cardboard structure by Shigeru Ban to temporarily replace Christchurch Cathedral
A deft hand at composing inspirational temporary venues for disaster areas across the world, commissioned Japanese architect and designer Shigeru Ban has presented his concepts for a cardboard cathedral.
The 6.3Rs earthquake that rocked Christchurch, New Zealand last February disturbed much of the architecture of Christchurch Cathedral which had for many years stood as a symbol and centrepoint of the city. In the aftermath, Shigeru Ban was approached to draw up concepts for a temporary religion monument to stand in its place, restoring some sense of hope and regeneration to the community.
Ban’s composition has now been released and its sheer ingenuity quickly lapped up by the awaiting press. Rows of paper tubing of equal length form the cathedral walls based on foundations made from shipping containers, with an entire end wall envisioned as a stained glass window which Ban suggests could be designed by a local artist.
With a capacity for 700 worshippers and a cost of $4m, it is possible that after its temporary use as a religious venue the building could be relocated elsewhere in the city and used for public events or by another church. The completed structure is due to open to the public on 22nd February 2012, on the first anniversary of the Christchurch earthquake.
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