A collaborative design showcasing the construction and traditional craftsmanship of Qatar and Japan while paying homage to both countries’ connection to the sea, the Qatar Pavilion is a hub for trade and knowledge exchange. As part of the Osaka Expo 2025, the structure was erected using the traditional dhow boat construction techniques inspired by Japan’s wood joinery heritage.
Kengo Kuma Associates
Another remarkable project by the Kengo Kuma Associates, the exhibition inside the pavilion highlights the nation’s initiatives towards the Qatar National Vision 2030. It presents financial options for diversifying the economy in line with the Third Qatar National Development Strategy 2024–2030.
The client, Qatar Museums, has a history of commissioning iconic architectural projects headed by renowned architects like Jean Nouvel and I.M. Pei, Kuma architects are the latest addition to the list.
Wooden structure with a veil
The graceful pavilion is inspired by the shape of a dhow. This traditional sailboat was once employed in Qatar as a trade vessel. Qatar’s crucial location at sea is honoured in the design, which incorporates the shape of its sails while the wood structure is an homage to Japanese history and strengthens the ties between the two countries, Qatar and Japan, in a stunning display of solidarity.
Visualisation of the project depicts a white cloth draped over the complex wooden structure, covering approximately 1200-metre square area, while at the heart of the structure will be a rectilinear volume with a facade made of wooden panels of different lengths and widths.
In front of the pavilion there will be a walkway providing access to the space, and shallow bodies of water will be located on either side of the pavilion.
External circulation paths will wrap around the central volume and will be partially sheltered by a secondary structure composed of large columns and an open roof connected by a joinery.
Arched openings in the canopy match the spacing of the exterior columns and provide views into the space.
The Qatar pavilion was inaugurated with the 2025 Osaka Expo on 13 April, 2024.
References:
- Qatar Pavilion (2024) Dezeen [digital] https://www.designboom.com/architecture/kengo-kuma-qatar-pavilion-expo-2025-osaka-07-09-2024/
- Ancient oriental Sailing Ship (2024) istock by Getty Images. [digital] https://www.istockphoto.com/vector/ancient-oriental-sailing-ship-gm2004486379-560395797
Citations:
- Ikiz, S.U. (2024) KKA unveils design for Qatar Pavilion for expo osaka 2025, Parametric Architecture. Available at: https://parametric-architecture.com/kka-unveils-design-for-qatar-pavilion-for-expo-osaka-2025/
- kat (2024). Kengo Kuma draws from Qatari ships & Japanese joinery for expo 2025 osaka. [online] designboom | architecture & design magazine. Available at: https://www.designboom.com/architecture/kengo-kuma-qatar-pavilion-expo-2025-osaka-07-09-2024/
- Society Interiors & Design. (2024). Kengo Kuma & Associates reveals design for Qatar Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka – Society Interiors & Design. [online] Available at: https://societyinteriorsdesign.com/kengo-kuma-associates-reveals-design-for-qatar-pavilion-at-expo-2025-osaka/
