Architect: Allianss Arhitektid, Estonia  
Location: Shangai, Cina

With temporary exhibitions, it can be a delicate balance between visually expressing a nation’s culture and creating an economical structure. Designers often turn to lightweight, durable fabrics to give full range to their ideas. A case in point is the Estonia Pavilion at last Shanghai World’s Fair, designed by Estonian architects Allianss Arhitektid,that wraps the building with colorful patterns and designs inspired by traditional women’s costumes from different parishes throughout the country.

The design for the enclosure is surprisingly simple: irregularly shaped vertical panels formed from steel channels are fitted against a plain box of a building to make a façade somewhat like overlapping vertical siding. Bends in the vertical edges and bulges outward from the façade add 3-D interest. Colour and pattern are printed by dye sublimation on the PVC-coated polyester mesh fabric stretched taut over the frames and fastened simply with flathead screws. The mesh provides micro-ventilation and allows outward visibility to visitors inside.

Technical info: Ferrari PVC-coated polyester mesh fabric
Picture credits: Allianss Arhitektid