World exhibitions are showcases of the future and inspire through innovations. Expo 2025 Osaka’s theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” aligns with this vision, and by choosing the sub-theme “Connecting Lives,” Luxembourg’s pavilion is emphasizing the connection between people and nations. This spirit is also captured in its Japanese-inspired leitmotif: “Doki Doki – The Luxembourg Heartbeat”.
Designed by Luxembourg’s architectural firm STDM, in close cooperation with the Japanese architecture office Mikan Gumi, and built by the Japanese construction company Naito House, the pavilion aligns with the circular economy principles. It is designed for disassembly, constructed with as little material as possible, and planned for easy dismantling - ensuring that as many components as possible can be reused.
The pavilion’s main structure is based on four key components:
- Mega blocks made of concrete serve as the foundation. These are easier to assemble and disassemble compared to traditional cast concrete.
- Rigid steel frames are linked together and weighed down with the concrete blocks, ensuring stability while maintaining flexibility for reuse.
- The membrane roof is a lightweight, high-performance roof and a prime example of the “Reduce” principle in the circular economy. It fulfills multiple functions with minimal material, reducing waste.
- Finally, the exterior walls are planned as well to be reused. The cladding on the facades comprises local standard formwork panels arranged in scales and fixed to horizontal metal cross-members.
An immersive and interactive three-act scenography imagined by the scenographers jangled nerves and built by the Japanese company DNP enriches the visitor experience at the pavilion. During a break in the pavilion’s courtyard, visitors can taste and enjoy Luxembourg’s savoir-vivre with food and drinks. At its heart, guests will be able to experience a special feature with an entertainment factor and an exciting story about Luxembourg’s traditions: A nine-pin bowling alley, called “Keelebunn” in Luxembourgish.
For more details, including program information, please check out the website below.