Co-designed by the Warsaw-based WXCA studio and Switzerland’s Bellprat Partner, the Polish Pavilion at the EXPO in Dubai has been named the Best Large Pavilion in EXHIBITOR Magazine’s World Expo Awards.
Co-designed by the Warsaw-based WXCA studio and Switzerland’s Bellprat Partner, the Polish Pavilion at the EXPO in Dubai has been named the Best Large Pavilion in EXHIBITOR Magazine’s World Expo Awards.
A favorite from the outset, it was praised by the 17-person international jury for being “one of the most elegant and sophisticated pavilions.” Continuing, the panel compared it to “a work of art” before citing it for its maturity and educational experience.
“It does not force things on you,” they added. “There are not too many interactivities, but it is sincerely refined.” Capturing the idea of mobility, the building was inspired by birds in flight.
Speaking to the Insider last month, one of the lead architects, Marta Sękulska-Wrońska, said:
“For architects, designing Poland’s showpiece at one of the world’s largest social, cultural, and economic events is the equivalent of an athlete competing and standing on the podium of the Olympic Games, hearing one’s national anthem being played.”
“Together with the Swiss studio Bellprat Partner, the intention underpinning the design of the architecture of the building and the exhibition was to create a coherent, meaningful and immersive space, a multidimensional experience encouraging people to learn not only about the multifaceted nature of Poland but also to reflect on the human–nature interactions present therein.”
Evoking a cloud of birds in flight, the kinetic sculpture shrouding the structure is arguably its defining motif, though The Pavilion was purposefully designed to prompt viewers to stop and experience the natural, cultural and intellectual richness of Poland.
“It invites visitors to a common fascination with the wisdom of nature, learning about the sources of Polish creativity. It inspires and encourages guests to stop and reflect deeply on the influence of the individual on the fate of the world and the planet, and the power of diversity.”
In a statement released to the press following the studio’s triumph, Sekulska-Wrońska wrote: “Recognition of our work by an international jury of experts means a lot to us.”
“The narrative, expressed in the language of architecture, of Polish creativity inspired by nature, the unity in diversity, the coexistence of man and nature, and our shared responsibility for the planet, is an important voice in the global discussion that is taking place in Dubai.”
