top of page

    Expo 2020   

Performance Based Design
Bird view on Performance Based Design Pavilion Rendering at Expo 2020 amongst other pavilions. The design is optimized for multiple objectives (Visitor Flow, Envelope, Structure, Material/ Skin).
Dubai Interior Visitor Flow In Model
Performance Based Design Pavilion for Expo 2020 model with bare structure and ETFE cushions
Performance Based Design Pavilion for Expo 2020 predicted visitor path in model view from agent based exploration/ simulation

Material/ Skin

ETFE/PV- Cushions

Minimal Sufaced Textile Cone/ Wall

Envelope

Maximal Energy Minimal Space

Visitor Flow

Guests' Experience/ Business Separation

Structure

Minimal Material Custom Ramp

(hover to reveal details)

TL;DR

Pushing Boundaries of Architectural Innovation: Unveiling the envisioned Dubai EXPO 2020 Pavilion Situated in the vibrant city of Dubai, the Dubai EXPO 2020 Pavilion stands as a remarkable example of performative-based architecture. Drawing inspiration from its surrounding desert landscape and driven by multi-objective optimization, this pavilion combines distinctive design elements, novel materials, and energy-efficient features to create a unique and barrier-free visitor experience. The architectural style of the pavilion is characterized by its performative nature, where the structure, envelope, circulation, materials, and energy efficiency are all optimized to achieve multiple objectives. The pavilion showcases a forward-thinking approach, employing state-of-the-art technologies and materials for both its external and internal load-bearing structures, exhibition areas, and envelope. As visitors enter the pavilion, they are welcomed into a spacious lobby, setting the stage for an immersive experience. The interior spaces are carefully planned to accommodate both business guests and visitors, with separate flow paths ensuring a smooth and efficient circulation. Agent-based simulations were utilized to simulate and adjust the circulation planning, resulting in a well-defined path for both visitor and business flows. The visitor path takes guests on an exciting journey through the pavilion. After passing through the entrance and lobby, visitors are guided to the first exhibition area located above the meeting room. From there, a sloped path leads to a spiral ramp, offering breathtaking views and access to a balcony that overlooks the pavilion and its surroundings. The ramp continues along a mesmerizing irregular helix-shaped design, with seating areas strategically placed to provide resting spots and optimal views of the stage. Along the way, visitors encounter unique design elements, including a custom interlacing timber support structure for the spiral ramp and a minimal surfaced textile cone in the center, which serves as a projection surface for captivating visuals. The pavilion's exterior features an optimized structural design with a glulam (glued laminated timber) waffle structure, ensuring both strength and aesthetic appeal. The envelope is constructed using three-layered ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) film cushions integrated with flexible photovoltaic cells, allowing for optimal performance and energy generation. The use of sustainable and patinating materials, such as wood, recycled materials, mineral materials, and biomaterials, maintains a warm and inviting character throughout the pavilion. Sustainability is a core aspect of the Dubai EXPO 2020 Pavilion. The envelope and structure have been meticulously designed to maximize energy gain through photovoltaic cells, while minimizing the need for cooling and HVAC systems. The optimization process took into account the hot arid climate of Dubai, ensuring a harmonious experience for visitors while considering energy efficiency and appropriate heights. To enhance air quality and ventilation, a separate solution for air ducts was meticulously calculated. This calculation led to a comprehensive air exchange system, which takes into account the expected peak number of visitors. By carefully balancing airflow, the pavilion ensures a continuous supply of fresh air while maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment. The incorporation of renewable energy sources not only supports the pavilion's environmental goals but also highlights the innovative and forward-looking nature of the design. In terms of dimensions, the pavilion spans 50 meters in width, 46 meters in length, and stands at a height of 16.8 meters. With a floor area of 2,100 square meters and an air volume of approximately 12,000 cubic meters, the pavilion offers ample space for exhibitions, interactions, and immersive visitor experience. Surrounded by other pavilions in the desert environment of Dubai, the pavilion's location is influenced by the city's hot arid climate and extreme heat conditions. While the main wind directions were partially neglected in the design process, careful attention was given to the sun study to optimize the pavilion's positioning. The entrance and exit areas occupy the front and right sides, respectively, while the top platform provides a panoramic exterior view to the left. The Dubai EXPO 2020 Pavilion stands as a testament to innovative design, sustainable practices, and an immersive visitor experience. By integrating advanced technologies, optimized structures, and thoughtful circulation planning, this pavilion creates a distinct presence within the EXPO 2020 site, inviting visitors to explore its exhibitions, enjoy breathtaking views, and engage with the vibrant atmosphere of Dubai.

Dramatic expo site model in birds view at night, showing the entire place
A_Surrounding
Beucherstrom
Top view of positioning Performance Based Design Pavilion model on conceptual Expo 2020 site and visualizing the visitor flow in and out of the building
Optimierter Besucherstrom
Performance orientierte Organisation

Aufregende Erfahrung für Gäste

Ungestörte Geschäftstreffen

Ununterbrochene Serviceversorgung

Circulation and positioning of functions within Performance Based Design Pavilion
3d section of Performance Based Design Pavilion, showing the fabric light tunnels, ETFE Cells, waffle structure, stage, custom ramp support design and minimal surface projection fabric.
Hülle
Optimirte Hülle
Maximale Energieausbeute
Minimaler Raumbedarf

Bietet komfortable Innenräume

Nutzung des gesamten Volumens, um eine möglichst effiziente Kühl-/Belüftungssituation zu schaffen.

Ausrichtung der PV - Zellen nach den lokal sinnvollsten Sonnenwinkeln

Providing comfortable Interior Height
A_Envelope
A 3 dimensional section with colored visualization of structural members in Holistic Structural Optimization for the Pavilion Project for the Expo 2020.
Tragstruktur
Van Mies Stress force lines in section of radially positioned vertical waffle elements
Custom ramp support design for Performance Based Design Pavilion for Expo 2020
Optimized Structure
Exterior

Minimal Material Gluelam Waffling

Providing adequate strength stabilizing form and connections

Interior

Custom Ramp Support System

Providing functional bending active structure

Minimizing use of material and energy

Custom ramp support design structure elements
A_Roof
Custom ramp support design detail for Performance Based Design Pavilion for Expo 2020
A 3 dimensional section with colored visualization of structural members in Holistic Structural Optimization for the Pavilion Project for the Expo 2020.
PV ETFE Cushions Reference
Material/ Skin Performance
The combined cushions over Pavilion
The combined cushions over Pavilion
3d section of Performance Based Design Pavilion, showing the fabric light tunnels, ETFE Cells, waffle structure, stage, custom ramp support design and minimal surface projection fabric.
Performance Based Design Pavilion for Expo 2020 model with bare structure and ETFE cushions
Interior Rendering with attractions on the visitor path to illustrate the usage
Optimized Material/ Skin Performance
Exterior

ETFE/PV- Cushions

Fabric Light Wells

Interior

​Minimal Sufaced Textile Cone

Wall Textile Intallations

Minimal surface fabric Projection Detail
Stylistic perspective of predicted interior visitor path projected up to custom fabric above path from top position on ramp
bottom of page