Slovenia Pavilion, as always, Expo Milan 2015 has been crowded with contemporary structures, complex designs, and post-modernist approaches. Nonetheless, Sono’s design for Slovenia Pavilion didn’t fall under any of the previous categories: a simple, elegant, and extremely green design that features the natural values of Slovenia, and its ambition for a better contribution to a green world.
Courtesy of SoNo ArhitektiArchitects
Inspired by the simple, yet solid values of sustainability Slovenia looks forward to implement, the firm has proposed a design of five prismatic structures, positioned on the geometrically and dynamically designed surface. That surface represents the geographical diversity of Slovenia, symbolizing ideas Sono sees fundamental for sustainability.
Courtesy of SoNo ArhitektiArchitects
The wooden structures hide much more than just wood, glass, metal, and concrete underneath them. The interior of the pavilion is a direct approach towards nature, with cells containing green plants and weeds beautifully placed inside the pavilion, addressing sustainability in the simplest, yet most natural way possible.
Courtesy of SoNo ArhitektiArchitects
The firm explains its approach further saying ” The idea for the Slovenian pavilion is based on the slogan “I FEEL SLOVENIA. Green. Active. Healthy. The common thread in the exhibition manifests itself through a series of interactive elements and architectural design through the pavilion.“
Courtesy of SoNo ArhitektiArchitects
Sono architects are known for their modernist approaches that fit deep inside the Slovenian culture. Their practice, as described by the firm “...unites a new young generation of Slovenian architects to create a modern, high-quality architecture that is emerging as a mix of architectural theory, study and research of the sites’ locations, innovation and testing of new materials and construction methods.” Their Slovenia Pavilion for the Expo Milan 2015 is a solid interpretation of their ideology, and of Slovenia’s aspiring architectural scene.
Project info:
Architects: SoNo Arhitekti
Country: Italy, Pero
Area: 800 m²
Year: 2015
Photographs: Courtesy of SoNo Arhitekti
Manufacturers: Stora Enso
Building Contractor: Lumar IG
Mechanical Engineer: Biro ES
Civil Engineer: CBD
Hazem Raad is an editor at Arch2O with a keen interest in the intersection of urban planning, politics, and technology in the Middle East. Holding a Master of Science in Urban Planning from The Bartlett's Development Planning Unit at University College London, his editorial lens is shaped by critical inquiry into contestation, border-making practices, and the role of big data in urban governance. Hazem’s writing explores how spatial dynamics and digital infrastructures intersect with socio-political realities, bringing analytical depth and regional nuance to Arch2O’s urban discourse.