Pavilion features modern ETFE canopy

The “Norway powered by nature” exhibit at the World Expo 2010 Shanghai China will showcase Norwegian woods in the Nanpu Bridge–Lupu Bridge area in the crowded center of one of China’s largest cities. The pavilion, supported by 15 tree-like structures made of renewable wood and bamboo, will wear a modern canopy of Teflon®-coated ETFE sail membrane, letting visitors walk through an environmentally friendly public park to experience Norway’s friendly urban and community ambiance.

Architectural studios Helen & Hard, Melvaer & Lien and SWECO Grøner designed each tree with infrastructure, including solar panels, rainwater collection and purification systems, natural motive power (chimney effect plus wind) ventilation and surfaces for multimedia displays. The four-point sail membrane shades against direct sun exposure, but allows enough light to filter through to minimize internal lighting power consumption. Because fabric reduces structural bulk and the tree structures can be packed flat, the exhibit space can easily be transported and re-used. Each tree structure represents one of four Norwegian landscapes (coast, forest, fjord and arctic) and each will find a new home after the May 1–October 31, 2010, Expo in a Chinese city, where they will be become symbols of friendship between the two nations.