icelandic pavilion at expo 2010

exterior view of the icelandic pavilion

architecture firm, plús arkitektar is responsible for the design of the icelandic pavilion at shanghai expo 2010, in collaboration with saga film. the pavilion is meant to reflect the relationship icelandic people have with nature, and how they have learned to harvest its energy to improve their lives. it will focus on energy, tourism, design and innovation, all under the theme of ‘pure energy – healthy living’.

500 sqm in size, the pavilion will be situated alongside the other nordic countries within the expo park, and will include a main exhibition hall, foyer and business centre.

the purpose of the structure is to create the image of an ice cube. this is executed through backlit printed fabric on the exterior of the building which captures complex ice patterns that are only visible within a glacier. within the pavilion, a short movie will be projected on white screens along the walls and ceiling that make up an all encompassing sound and image capsule. a story of survival and success will unfold, transporting visitors from shanghai to the calm, peaceful and clean environment of iceland.

to enhance the ambient experience, the interior temperature will be lowered and dehumidified below common practice to create a cool and tranquil icelandic sanctuary within the heart of the world expo. the entrance facade will be clad with icelandic lava stone, with TV monitors integrated into the construction, displaying information about the nature, culture and economy of iceland.

illuminated by night