fbpx
Close

Take a look at the newly opened Sustainability Pavilion for Expo 2020 Dubai

Terra, the Sustainability Pavilion for Expo 2020 Dubai, is open to the public

The long-awaited Expo 2020 Dubai has opened the doors of its Sustainability Pavilion – Terra – to the public as part of its Expo 2020 Pavilion Premiere launch, allowing visitors to preview the thematic pavilions for the first time since Dubai’s Expo bid was announced.

All photography by Dany Eid/Expo 2020

Designed by British architecture practice Grimshaw Architects, the structure responds to LEED Platinum building standards. Much like the ghaf tree that inspired its design – found in the most arid climates with little water needed for survival – so the pavilion aims to embrace a self-sustaining ecosystem, generating 100 per cent of its energy and water supply.

The pavilion draws inspiration from natural processes such as photosynthesis, its dynamic form designed in service to its function, capturing energy from sunlight and fresh water from humid air. Built as a net-zero structure, it uses water-reduction strategies and recycling as well as alternative water sources.

View of the Canopy and energy trees at the Sustainability Pavilion

1,055 photovoltaic panels are arranged on the building’s 130-metre-wide roof canopy with ‘Energy Trees’ integrated into the surrounding landscape, providing shade to the external spaces, while tracking the path of the sun to generate as much energy as possible.

Read more: Andrew Whalley of Grimshaw Architects talks about ‘Terra’ – the Sustainability Pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020

Further energy is being saved by burying much of the occupied spaces below ground and providing thick, insulated walls with minimal glazing. The orientation of the funnel shape of the pavilion canopy creates air flows that naturally ventilate the pavilion courtyard.

Sustainability pavilion exhibition interior at Expo 2020 site

From January to April, visitors are encouraged to explore Terra’s surrounding public spaces, from a children’s playground and gift shop to various dining offerings. One of its main offerings is however, the exhibitions themselves, providing a view into the natural world, while aiming to create awareness around how human behaviours impact the environment.

‘Under the Ocean’ exhibition at the Sustainability Pavilion

“An immersive theatre is how I’d describe it,” Andrew Whalley, chairman and partner at Grimshaw told identity. “You need to immerse people in the landscape and nature, and to entertain them and catch their imagination, to draw their attention to the need to be more sustainable.”

Terra will remain as part of Expo 2020’s legacy project, later transforming into a Science Centre with hopes to inspire future generations to make sustainable choices.

Terra has been open to the public from 22 January, while Alif – The Mobility Pavilion and Mission Possible – The Opportunity Pavilion will follow later in the first quarter of 2021. Tickets to visit the pavilions cost AED 25.

Expo 2020 Dubai will be open from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022.

Read more: Asif Khan’s entry portals for Expo 2020 combines carbon fibre and Emirati crafts

 

 

 

 

The Latest

Read ‘New Generations’ – Note from the editor – June 2025

Read identity magazine's June 2025 edition on ISSUU or grab your copy at the newsstands.

Edginess in Shenzhen

This contemporary duplex with glowing accents brings a touch of Paris elegance to one of China’s booming cities

Technogym Artis

Technogym’s new Artis Luxury line blends style and design

High-performance wellness meets seamless integration of advanced technology, sustainability, and timeless style.

Things to Covet – May 2025

Here are the latest releases that we spotted at Milan Design Week

AMAN NAI LERT

A Contemporary Sanctuary Rooted in Thai Heritage

The newest Aman hotel in Bangkok offers culture, craft and timeless design

LUTRON

Light as a Design Statement

Lutron’s Alisse Keypads and S-Curve Shades are elevating Middle Eastern interiors with seamless control and sculptural beauty

Optical Delight

Influenced by the geometric formation of crystals, Arctic elegantly captures and refracts light

Downtown Design Riyadh

Highlights from Downtown Design Riyadh

From collectible creations and immersive installations to Saudi-driven showcases, the Kingdom’s first high-end contemporary design fair spotlighted local vision and global design excellence.

Oikos

An impressive entrance at a home in Amman, Jordan

The Synua pivot door by Oikos defines the entrance of a contemporary villa in Jordan’s capital with scale, strength, and striking materiality.

Small Spaces, Big Impact

How intentional design, emotional storytelling and clever craftsmanship can quickly transform challenging spaces into points of interest

Cosentino at Downtown Design Riyadh

Cosentino’s Moon Vignettes makes a comeback at Downtown Design Riyadh

Over 70% of the installation has been repurposed for this edition, showcasing the brand's dedication to circular economy.