Officially open since April 13 as part of Expo 2025 Osaka, the German Pavilion, designed by LAVA Architects. brings to life the theme of the circular economy. Previously unveiled under the title "Wa! Doitsu" (translated as "Wow! Germany"), the Pavilion explores concepts around circularity, showcasing the "terminological culmination of the sustainability discussion." Focusing on returning all consumable goods to the cycle of the economy, achieving zero waste, and minimizing resource consumption, the theme is visible throughout the entire design.
Designed by the Laboratory for Visionary Architecture (LAVA) in Berlin, the pavilion's architecture and spatial design utilize seven round wooden structural elements, immediately conveying the theme of circularity. Uniting nature and technology, the design blends the biosphere with the human-made technosphere to create an experiential visit. Moreover, the design features two cylindrical structures that house the exhibition and hospitality areas, merging into a freely accessible green space.
The design aims to illustrate how future architecture and urban development can combine circularity and lived experience by integrating nature and built environments within "closed material cycles." Additionally, it aims to combine architecture, landscape, and exhibition programs in one holistic experience, highlighting a circular future.
Related Article
Learning from Global Architecture Exhibitions: Resource Efficiency, Vernacular Intelligence, and Social and Environmental AdvocacyRegarding sustainability goals, the pavilion questions the regular workflow and outputs of designing, producing, and operating. In fact, The Germany Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is intended as a prototype for repurposing and reusing structures. Featuring a completely circular structure crafted with all reusable materials, the design uses key elements such as indoor climate design and innovative recycled materials to showcase these concepts.
Expected to draw millions of visitors, the Expo Osaka 2025 will run for 184 days, from April 13 to October 13. This international event serves as a platform for showcasing new technologies, products, and global conversations around the built environment. Many national pavilions have already been completed and opened to the public. Kengo Kuma designed two pavilions: Portugal's, which pays tribute to the ocean, and Qatar's, inspired by traditional dhow boat construction techniques. The Luxembourg Pavilion, designed by STDM and Mikan, explores themes of rhythm and modularity, while the Austrian Pavilion, designed by BWM Architects, highlights the country's musical heritage. Finally, LAVA Architects also designed the Pavilion for the State of Kuwait, envisioned as a "visionary lighthouse."
We invite you to check out ArchDaily's comprehensive coverage of Expo Osaka 2025.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on June 28, 2024, and updated on April 22, 2025, following the official opening.
