RIBA + L.K.E. Ozolins Lecture 2026: Shigeru Ban

Join us for the 2026 L.K.E. Ozolins Lecture with internationally acclaimed Japanese architect Shigeru Ban.

Celebrated for his innovative use of renewable materials and rapid-response strategies in humanitarian architecture, Shigeru Ban’s work demonstrates the power of architecture to drive positive change in post-disaster environments, both natural and man-made.

His revolutionary work with paper tubes shows how modest materials can achieve remarkable results – from rapid-response emergency structures to elegant buildings intended to last – while his timber structures push the possibilities of environmental stewardship. This approach to materials innovation combined with his deep commitment to architecture’s social responsibility has transformed global disaster response and continues to spark conversations at the intersection of architecture, sustainability, and humanitarian aid. During a time of climate change, escalating natural disasters and global conflicts, the lessons from Ban's work are more urgent than ever, reminding us how resilient and adaptable structures can save lives and rebuild communities.

In his 2026 lecture, “Balancing Architectural Works and Social Contributions”, Ban will share his invaluable perspectives on designing after disaster, reflecting on this work within the context of his varied and distinguished career to date.

This event is for anyone curious about architecture, design, and the way we live. It explores the transformative power of design, showing how, in the face of humanitarian and environmental crises today, architecture can shape more resilient, sustainable futures.

The event will be chaired by Dr. Anthony Powis, architect, researcher and lecturer in Architecture and Climate at the University of Sheffield. After the keynote lecture, Anthony will lead a short conversation. Then you’ll have the chance to ask questions during an audience Q&A. After this, stay for a drinks reception and further discussion in the adjacent Royal Geographical Society Map Room.

About the L.K.E. Ozolins lecture

Each year, the L.K.E. Ozolins lecture brings internationally renowned architects to explore the positive impact of architecture on society. Recent lectures have focussed on urgent themes such as healthcare and urban food production. The lecture is generously supported by the L.K.E. Ozolins legacy fund, created from a bequest to RIBA from Mrs Hoda Ozolins in memory of her late husband, Latvian architect and lecturer Laimons Knud Eugen Ozolins. Alongside the annual lecture, the legacy fund provides a generous studentship for an architecture student completing a PhD. Find out more about the legacy fund here.

Lead image: Cardboard Cathedral, Christchurch, New Zealand, Shigeru Ban Architects. Image credit: Bridgit Anderson.

Visitor Information

• The lecture will take place in the Ondaajte Theatre of the Royal Geographical Society, South Kensington.
• The nearest tube stations are South Kensington, on the Piccadilly, District and Circle Lines (11 minutes walk, 0.7km, no step-free access), Knightsbridge on the Piccadilly Line (15 minutes, 1.0km, step-free access at Hooper's Court entrance), and Gloucester Road on the Piccadilly, District and Circle Lines (17 minutes, 1.2km, lift but no step-free access)

• Doors will open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start

• There will be a bar available, offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink options. Please note, RIBA operate a Challenge 25 policy

• British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation will be provided throughout the event. For BSL priority seating, please book 'BSL Seating' tickets at the checkout
• We offer concession tickets for students, those on lower incomes, those with disabilities, and those over 65. Please choose the 'Concession' ticket at the checkout
• We aim to make our events open and accessible to all. If cost is a barrier, we offer an additional discounted option via a discount code. Please contact talks@riba.org in confidence for the code

• If you would like to discuss your attendance and inclusion and/or access needs to attend the event comfortably, please contact talks@riba.org.

Terms and Conditions

• Cancellations must be made in writing to talks@riba.org
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