A towering bamboo structure by Vo Trong Nghia Architects has been chosen to represent Vietnam at the World Expo 2015 in Milan.
Nghia’s design is modelled on Vietnam’s national flower – the lotus - and features 25 umbrella-like bamboo structures supporting trees above a pool of water.
Visitors cross the water on lotus leaf shaped stepping stones, which double as areas for external dining and recreation.
A protective screen around the pavilion can be folded back to allow naturally ventilated air into the gallery.
Responding to the expo's theme "Feeding the Planet, Energy for life", the architects looked at the way every part of the lotus flower is utilized by the Vietnamese people and regarded it as an example for sustainable living.
In order to reduce the building’s environmental impact, the pavilion is designed so that the prefabricated bamboo structure can be easily dissembled and recycled after the event.
Vietnam is one of 145 nations participating at the Milan Expo in 2015, which takes place from May to October.
Courtesy Arch Daily
