Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava has revealed his design for the Qatar Pavilion at the upcoming Expo 2020 Dubai, which draws on the four elements represented on Qatar's coat of arms.
Calatrava's design for the pavilion aimed to translate the two crossed and curved swords, traditional dhow boat and an island with palm trees on the Qatari coat of arms into a building design that would capture "movement, mobility, strength and tradition".
A visualisation of the resulting pavilion shows a curved, sail-shaped structure intersected by a lower building. The completed pavilion will measure 620 square metres, with the main building reaching a height of nearly 15 metres.
The pavilion will contain two main galleries and exhibition spaces showcasing an immersive experience of Qatar's history and culture. A gold-coloured sculpture representing palm trees will rise to a height of 20 metres next to the pavilion.
Building designed to capture "vision of the nation"
The shape of the pavilion, which is currently being constructed by Dubai contractor ALEC Fitout, was designed to symbolise "Qatar's progressive outlook of the future while remaining true to its culture and heritage".
"Inspiration is derived from Qatar?s national emblem to truly capture the essence and vision of the nation," said Calatrava International CEO Micael Calatrava.
Top image: the building is shaped like a sail. Above: it consists of intersecting volumes
"The architect...