Japanese Architecture Firm Designs Boat-Inspired Qatar Pavilion for Expo 2025 Osaka

Kengo Kuma & Associates, a Japanese architecture firm, has revealed the architectural design for Qatar's national pavilion for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

Dezeen reported that the pavillion will be 1,200 square meters and will feature a Japanese wooden structure covered by a white fabric veil reminiscent of a Qatari dhow boat's sail. This design aims to symbolize the maritime connections between Qatar and Japan.

A Qatari diplomat told Doha News, "Qatar's participation serves to fortify the comprehensive strategic partnership that has flourished for over fifty years, a testament to the resolute political commitment and shared aspirations of both nations."

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Qatar Pavillon's Design

Arch Daily reported that the entrance to the pavilion will be marked by a walkway flanked by shallow water features, designed to match the pavilion's coastal theme.

Inside the pavilion, visitors will be introduced to historical and contemporary aspects of Qatar's coastal regions. The exhibit will also focus on Qatar's progress towards achieving its National Vision 2030, a comprehensive development plan aimed at transforming Qatar into a knowledge-based economy.

The exterior of the pavilion will feature pathways for circulation, partially sheltered by a secondary structure made up of large columns and an open roof connected by traditional joinery techniques. Arched openings in the canopy will align with the spacing of these columns, offering visitors views of the surrounding Expo grounds.

The design elements of Kengo Kuma's Qatar Pavilion emphasize the pavilion's connection to both the natural environment and the Expo theme of "Designing Future Society for Our Lives."

The Qatar Pavilion is scheduled to open on April 13, 2025, coinciding with the start of Expo 2025 Osaka. The event, masterplanned by Sou Fujimoto Architects, will feature a series of national pavilions, each contributing to the overarching theme.