They do say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover; but it's a little tough to ignore this one.

Taschen's Art Edition monograph on Shigeru Ban has its cover custom made by Shigeru Ban himself, with a hand-crafted mesh of polished African Samba wood, inspired by the roof design of the new Centre Pompidou-Metz.

But then the inside of this publication by the coffee table kings Taschen, lives up to its exterior - having been compiled with the architect's collaboration.

Tracing his career and featuring every built work, it shows clearly why Ban is one of the world's most innovative and significant architects.

Based in Tokyo and Paris, Ban consistently challenges accepted notions of architecture, designing a house without walls, or an exhibition space made from paper tubes and shipping containers.

Yet challenging the system with inventive repurposing of everyday materials is just the beginning of his genius...

'Shigeru Ban, Complete Works, 1985 - 2010, Art Edition' is limited to 200 numbered copies, each signed by the architect.