As always, Expo Milan 2015 has been crowded with contemporary structures, complex designs, and post-modernist approaches. Nonetheless, Sono’s design for Slovenia Pavilion didn’t fall under any of the previous categories: a simple, elegant, and extremely green design that features the natural values of Slovenia, and its ambition for a better contribution to a green world.
Inspired by the simple, yet solid values of sustainability Slovenia looks forward to implement, the firm has proposed a design of five prismatic structures, positioned on the geometrically and dynamically designed surface. That surface represents the geographical diversity of Slovenia, symbolizing ideas Sono sees fundamental for sustainability.
The wooden structures hide much more than just wood, glass, metal, and concrete underneath them. The interior of the pavilion is a direct approach towards nature, with cells containing green plants and weeds beautifully placed inside the pavilion, addressing sustainability in the simplest, yet most natural way possible.
The firm explains its approach further saying ” The idea for the Slovenian pavilion is based on the slogan “I FEEL SLOVENIA. Green. Active. Healthy. The common thread in the exhibition manifests itself through a series of interactive elements and architectural design through the pavilion.“
Sono architects are known for their modernist approaches that fit deep inside the Slovenian culture. Their practice, as described by the firm “...unites a new young generation of Slovenian architects to create a modern, high-quality architecture that is emerging as a mix of architectural theory, study and research of the sites’ locations, innovation and testing of new materials and construction methods.” Their Slovenia Pavilion for the Expo Milan 2015 is a solid interpretation of their ideology, and of Slovenia’s aspiring architectural scene.