12 Mar 2019
Belgian Pavilion for 2020 World Expo to showcase benefits of eco-design
BY Andrew Manns
The Green Ark, Belgium's winning concept for the 2020 World Expo in Dubai, will function as both an exhibit of biophilic architecture and an illustration of the country's green future.
Designed by Belgian bureaux Vincent Callebaut Architectures and Assar Architects, the future building will feature merchandise shops, a brasserie, terrace, and a naturally ventilated agora.
Set to be constructed from sustainable materials, the Ark will also have an oasis-like garden comprised of 10,000 hanging plants, which will serve to store carbon dioxide and lower the space's temperature by up to five degrees.
Food and beverage areas will be planned by Creneau International, while German scenography office, Krafthaus, will contribute to the project's overall creative direction.
The pavilion will be built by Belgian construction firm Besix.
The firm called the project an "ode to the circular economy" and a symbol of "Belgium's dynamism".
Rik Vandenberghe, CEO at BESIX, commented, "Our drive for excellence will be clearly put into practice in this project to promote Belgium, its regions, communities and enterprises.
"Moreover, our expertise in innovation and in the construction of smart buildings will be instrumental to make out of the Pavilion the flagship of our purpose: to excel in creating sustainable solutions for a better world."
The Ark is expected to welcome 20,000 visitors daily.
The World Expo, which will bring together designers and artists from 190 countries, is scheduled to hold its inaugural ceremony in October 2020.
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