At the outset of the Luxembourg pavilion project for Dubai EXPO 2020, the client faced several challenges. The primary concern was to align the design with the theme of "Opportunity," reflecting sustainability and the circular economy. This required ensuring that 70% of the materials used were either reused or recycled, presenting a significant logistical and material sourcing challenge. The complex Möbius strip design demanded innovative structural solutions, particularly the choice of a recyclable steel structure. Additionally, the double-skin PTFE membrane system required precise geometry checking and tensioning over the steel grid shell. The client also needed expert consultation on access, maintenance, and acoustic and scenography design to ensure the pavilion met high standards of functionality and visitor experience.
Luxembourg Pavilion at Dubai EXPO 2020: Demonstrating Opportunities, Sustainability, and Circular Economy.
Client
- WME Consultants
Architect :
Metaform Architects
Year
2020
Scope
Façade consulting + Acoustics + Access + Maintenance
The Luxembourg pavilion at Dubai EXPO 2020, themed "Opportunity," reflects the rich history, present, and future of this small European nation. Designed by Luxembourg architects Metaform, the pavilion's Möbius strip design symbolizes infinity, sustainability, and the circular economy. To meet the client's and Expo's requirement of reusing or recycling 70% of the materials, a steel structure was chosen for its recyclability. Egis was brought on board for their expertise in sustainable construction and innovative solutions. Inhabit’s Dubai team provided geometry checking and consulting on the membrane form, steel structure, access, and maintenance during the design stages, as well as façade consulting during construction. Additionally, Inhabit’s Middle East Acoustics team, engaged by WME, contributed to the pavilion's acoustic and scenography design components, ensuring a holistic approach to the project.
The challenge.
Our added value.
What makes the Luxembourg pavilion at Dubai EXPO 2020 particularly interesting and unique is its innovative and sustainable approach, both in concept and execution. The pavilion's design, inspired by the Möbius strip, symbolizes infinity with its continuous surface, embodying the themes of sustainability and the circular economy. This complex design required advanced engineering and precise execution, particularly in the choice of materials and construction methodologies.
The use of a steel structure was a deliberate choice, as steel is highly recyclable, aligning with the client's requirement that 70% of the materials be reused or recycled. The double-skin PTFE membrane system, which is double curved and tensioned over the steel grid shell, adds another layer of complexity and innovation. This membrane not only provides aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the building's energy efficiency by regulating heat and light.
Inhabit’s Dubai team played a crucial role in ensuring the project's success by providing geometry checking of the membrane form and steel structure, as well as consulting on access and maintenance during the design stages. Their involvement extended to façade consulting during construction, ensuring that the pavilion met the highest standards of durability and functionality.
Additionally, Inhabit’s Middle East Acoustics team, engaged by WME, contributed to the pavilion's acoustic and scenography design components. This holistic approach ensured that the pavilion not only looked stunning but also provided an immersive and engaging experience for visitors.
Overall, the Luxembourg pavilion stands out due to its innovative use of materials, advanced engineering techniques, and a strong commitment to sustainability, making it a landmark project at Dubai EXPO 2020.
