Exterior view of the Swiss Pavilion. Image © FDFA, Presence Switzerland
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https://www.archdaily.com/1019073/swiss-pavilion-designed-by-manuel-herz-architekten-explores-lightweight-materials-at-expo-osaka-2025
The latest photographs of the Swiss Pavilion for Expo 2025 Osaka have just been released. Designed by Manuel Herz Architekten, NUSSLI, and Bellprat Partner, as a result of a competition won, the pavilion guides visitors through five spatial zones under the theme From Heidi to High Tech. The installation brings together references from Swiss cultural narratives and technological developments in a multi-sensory setting. In line with the Expo’s overall theme, “Designing the Future Society for Our Lives,” the pavilion aims to minimize environmental impact with a lightweight membrane design that allows for speedy construction and strengthens the relationship between both countries.
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The pavilion features four lightweight, interconnected spheres, creating a space to showcase Swiss innovation. Visitors can explore an interactive and educational playground showcasing Swiss creativity. The pavilion’s rooftop offers views of the Expo, serving as a venue for gathering at the festival.
Exterior view of the Swiss Pavilion. Image © FDFA, Presence Switzerland
In keeping with the Expo’s theme of sustainable futures, the Swiss Pavilion uses a lightweight membrane design to reduce its environmental impact. Together with NUSSLI and other professionals, the group seeks to design and advance environmentally friendly building methods. The General Commissioner Manuel Salchli emphasized that the “exhibition structure for Osaka will be the lightest ever built by Switzerland for a World Expo .”
Related Article Expo 2025 Osaka: 8 Must-See National Pavilions
The pavilion’s exhibitions center around three main themes in consecutive order: Augmented Human (robotics, AI, AR/VR); Life (life sciences, education, health, nutrition); and Planet (environment, sustainability, climate, energy). These themes are integrated into the eight thematic weeks proposed by the Expo, with Switzerland actively participating in discussions on global issues alongside other collaborators.
Interior of third Sphere. Image © Effektschmiede
Designed as a platform to promote Switzerland in Japan, the pavilion features contributions from both the public and private sectors. Some partners joining the pavilion’s effort include design houses, fashion houses, and Swiss wine gastronomy practices. Furthermore, the pavilion provides an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between Switzerland and Japan.
Roof-Top Bar. Image © FDFA, Presence Switzerland
Many other countries are welcoming visitors to their national pavilions for Expo Osaka 2025 until 13 October 2025. In the French Pavilion, Theatre of Life, designed by Carlo Ratti in collaboration with Coldefy, visitors are invited to explore France’s multiple ecosystems and rediscover a connection to nature. The National Pavilion of the Kingdom of Bahrain, designed by Lina Ghotmeh – Architecture, draws inspiration from traditional Bahraini dhow boats to showcase craftsmanship and manufacturing heritage. Similarly, Trahan Architects’ USA Pavilion focuses on American innovations.
We invite you to check out ArchDaily’s comprehensive coverage of the Expo Osaka 2025.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on July 19, 2024, and updated on April 16, 2025, following the official announcement of the completion.
AloJapan.com