JKMM Architects, which were also the architects of Finland’s pavilion at Shanghai Expo 2010, have designed a simple yet iconic structure, ensuring memorable visitor experience remain at the core of the architectural concept where sustainability has been a guiding theme throughout the design and construction process.
"In designing the pavilion, we sought to bring a fragment of Finnish nature to UAE and Dubai. The main entrance was inspired by a traditional Arabic tent. Two cultures meet in the architectural concept of the pavilion.The central gorge space is covered with curved wooden surfaces. Hopefully, this will the best space in Expo for meeting face to face.”
Teemu Kurkela, founder and creative partner at JKMM Architects.
With the exception of a limited number of Finnish materials being imported, Snow Cape is being built almost entirely using material from the local market, thereby reducing the environmental burden caused by unnecessary logistics and transportation.
The simple design of Snow Cape minimises unnecessary additional claddings, enabling us to reduce the overall use of materials. 80-85 per cent of the materials used to build Snow Cape would be recycled and reused after Expo 2020 Dubai concludes in April 2021.
“The main theme of Snow Cape and Finland’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai is ‘Finland – Sharing Future Happiness’. Finnish happiness is based on the symbiosis of people, nature and technology. This deep connection is the origin of the quality of everyday Finnish life and the Finland pavilion communicates this happiness by taking visitors on a journey through Finland’s key strengths; nature and sustainability, education and know-how and functionality and wellbeing."
“We want visitors to Snow Cape to immerse themselves in our deep connection to nature and sustainability. The values of happiness, circular economy and innovations that are being showcased throughout the pavilion and exhibition design.”
Severi Keinälä, Commissioner General of Finland at Expo 2020 Dubai.
Several Finnish companies have been actively involved in the construction of the Finnish pavilion. For example, the pavilion elevators will be provided by KONE and will be repurposed following the Expo. Halton Group will provide an air ventilation system inside the main exhibition.
