On the presentation of Slovenian pavilion EXPO 2020, Dubai wrote about Slovenia: ”The world’s only country with ‘love’ in its name will highlight its healthy lifestyle, natural beauty, and tourism possibilities.”
FLOATING FOREST
The selected concept of a three-storied structure was created by the architecture firm Magnet Design and will present Slovenia as a green oasis in Europe as well as in the desert during the exhibition, held in the United Arab Emirates.
Themed the ‘Smart Green Cloud’, the Slovenia Pavilion will use elements of water, nature, and technology to engage all five senses and give visitors an in-depth view of Slovenian culture. Populated by Slovenian plant species, the ‘floating forest’ will be topped off by a sieve-dome that resembles a parasol. The design is inspired by the revered architect Jože Plečnik, whose iconic works including the Triple Bridge live on today in the nation’s capital of Ljubljana.
The ground floor’s theme will be water, presenting the country’s sea, rivers, lakes, and particularly drinking water. Water will be surrounding the central part or a market with the four cardinal points marked on the floor, representing Slovenia’s position at the nexus of transport routes. The first floor will be showcasing Slovenia’s forests, with green plants climbing the wooden rim of the structure. The plants will be kept cold and hydrated during the event, providing cooling refreshment for visitors.
