“Looking at the history of World Expositions, pavilion architecture has in the past been a place for experimentation with ideas, structures, and materials for future buildings. Unfortunately, in recent years this tradition has died out, and most pavilions have become simple ‘play of shapes’ relying on computer technology. We are now proposing new materials and structure that are unprecedented in the world. The main dome is made of CFRP (Carbone Fiber Reinforced Plastic) tubes, which have been used in airplane and car bodies but not yet as a main structure in architecture. By reducing the weight of the structure to less than of the weight of the soil excavated for the building foundation, we succeeded in eliminating the need for piling work on this weak reclaimed site, also facilitating the relocation of the exhibition thanks to its lightweight building. The sub-dome uses a paper tube structure made of recycled paper and laminated bamboo, developed for the first time in the world,” Shigeru Ban.
The complex is composed of three architecturally distinct domes, one main structure and two secondary ones. Dome A is made of laminated bamboo, addressing neglected bamboo forests and showcasing bamboo as a strong, eco-friendly structural material. Dome B is the world’s first large-scale structure using CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic), offering lightweight, strong, and recyclable architecture without the need for piling work. Dome C, built with paper tubes, in an atomic-like structure, serving as a networking hub for exhibitions and events.
With the Blue Ocean Dome Zeri Japan aims to deepen understanding of the oceans, and create a networking hub by communicating the importance of preventing plastic marine pollution, developing a sustainable marine industry, and promoting the understanding of ocean climate change.
Photo © Hiroyuki Hirai
