The February 2011 Christchurch earthquake (magnitude 6.3) inflicted crippling damage on the Christchurch Cathedral which was the symbol of city. In response to this situation, Shigeru Ban Architects were asked to design new temporary cathedral.
Paper tubes of the equal length and 20 ft containers form triangular shape. Since geometry is decided by plan and elevations of the original cathedral, there is a gradual change in each angle of paper tubes. This cathedral, which has a capacity of 700 people, can be used as an event space and a concert space.
There was a media conference in Christchurch on 31st of July, 2011. The aim of Shigeru Ban Architects is to open cardboard cathedral on 22nd of February, 2012, one year after the earthquake.
