ABSTRACT
The only example of a currently well-known architect working continually in the humanitarian field is the Japanese architect Shigeru Ban. He clearly uses his innovative architectural design skills, working with disaster survivors more as clients or consumers rather than design or construction participants or even the 'architects'. The interview provides rich insights into his unique role in designing structures in many disaster contexts, always sensitive to local cultures, based on strong links with local architects, and always seeking low-cost, sustainable solutions. The philosophy that inspires the development work that Paul Pholeros leads among the Indigenous people of South Australia in the organization he co-founded, 'Healthabitat', echoes the experiences of post-disaster interventions by sensitive architects. Patama Roonrakwit's interview reveals a passion to work with people, to enable them to play crucial roles in the creation of responsive living environments. Eric Cesal travelled to work on reconstruction projects in the blistering heat of Biloxi.
