COMPETITION PROPOSAL FOR THE EXPO 2017 IN ASTANA, KAZAKHSTAN

BRIEF:

The proposal envisions the Latvian pavilion in the International Exposition scheduled to take place between June 10 and September 10, 2017 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The expo's official theme is "Future Energy", showcasing solutions tackling social, economic and environmental challenges.

CONCEPT:

The conceptual base of the proposal is a terminal, a station, a meeting point, presenting Latvia as an excellent transport and service transmission node. The project proposes the smart use and saving of the existing energy, rather than focusing on new sources of energy. This is achieved through concentrating on collaboration, logistics and new routes of transit. Latvia is presented as a meeting point between the West and the East, ensuring a smooth flow of energies and partnerships between them.

ARCHITECTURAL SPATIAL SOLUTION:

The main element of the exhibition is the grand stair that brings forth associations with the golden eagle – a symbol in the flag of Kazakhstan and an image of traditional values. The stair not only divides the space into differentiated functional areas, but also visually widens the pavilion through its diagonal configuration. The stair functions also as a stage, a point of formal speeches and accommodates informal use.

The ground floor is the main exhibition area that is changeable and adapdable to each of the twelve thematic weeks featured during the EXPO. Information is presented on the projection wall and the movable interactive displays. A row of boxes holds thematic information about each of the topical weeks, ensuring a circulation of information throughout the duration of the exposition. A light installation draws the attention to the main concept of the pavilion – Latvia as a meeting point between the West and the East. The ceiling installation features visual projections, that provide an atmospheric mood appropriate to each of the thematic weeks.

The ground floor accommodates the service area – information distribution point, a shop and a bar, as well as an enclosed confidential meeting room. The second floor features an open social space and library, that provides a moment of rest and comfort or interaction and exploration.