MILAN EXPO 2016

SPAIN PAVILION
DESIGN GREEN HOUSE – INSPIRED
Barcelona’s b720 arquitectos has designed a greenhouse-inspired pavilion to
represent Spain at the 2015 Milan Expo. Representing a “fusion” of Spain’s
gastronomic tradition and innovation, the portico-like structure will be divided into two
halves and united by a repetitious form.
On one side, the “shed-shaped” structure’s timber frame will represent the country’s
gastronomic tradition. A series of outdoor spaces will be punctuated by program
clothed in materials made from wine bottle corks, barrels and esparto grass fabric (used
for pressing olive oil). While it’s other side, an enclosed space clad in stainless steel
and rendered with colors reminiscent of Spain’s most recognizable products will
represent the country’s gastronomic innovation. ‘The Spanish gastronomy reputation,
based on the balanced combination of tradition and innovation, makes it a global
reference on international markets. This fact has a relevant role on the generation of the
pavilion, creating two separated areas – and applying different tectonics to them –
according to this duality,” described the architects.
Spanish-like spaces highlighted include a barrier-free ground floor, orange groove
courtyard and second story terrace of vegetable gardens, as well as a hydroponic canopy
sheltering a restaurant and auditoria.