The proposal for the thematic pavilion for EXPO 2012 in Yeosu Korea, aims to become part of the future vision for YEOSU and world expo 2012. The sites iconic presence within the masterplan allows the building to have an extraordinary and privileged location as well as to be viewed from any part of the Expo site. Located across from the big – O development, the project aims to be in close contact to the surroundings as well as projecting towards the ocean. The theme of the exhibition being ocean and coasts has such a valuable characteristic , that taking advantage of this location the building hovers above the water, giving the visitor a unique experience upon entry.
BUILDING MASSING
The building layout can be simplified into three main volumes that are interconnected on its three sides. By elevating the upper volume structural elements are incorporated to support the building as well as creating a new space underneath it. By elevating specific locations of the building massing, the building can hover above the water elegantly.
CONECTIVITY AND VIEWS
By having the three building interconnected, we achieve an extremely efficient and simple circulation from one exhibition hall to another. The central void acts as the main circulation where the user can easily connect from exhibition space to café, shop and services, as well as enjoy a theme projection or relax at the steps around it. View is an extremely important factor in the project. The building by being elevated above allows for a plaza underneath where one can enter and have views of the ocean. An observation deck and outdoor walkway is incorporated within the void , where one can enjoy a magnificent view towards the masterplan and big- O.
BUILDING STRUCTURE
The building structure is composed of three systems. The lower level or pedestals are made of concrete shear walls, which act as the load distributor of the exhibition upper floor. The second is a steel structural framing made up of trusses, behaving as a light weight structure that is capable of covering the entire exhibition floor, resulting in a column free area. The lightweight structure at the roof is composed of triangular members which tie back to the lateral trusses. This combination of steel and concrete is optimum for support of the pavilion. The building behaves structurally as a tripod, where the 3 lobes serve as connectors to the ground and also support the upper exhibition floors. The triangular trusses on the 3 sides of the building play an important role structurally while providing views to the city and ocean. As the building is projected towards the water, piling is considered for off shore foundations at each one of the pedestals. The pile caps then support the concrete walls at the base of the building.
The expo’s vision to help with climate change is also considered in the proposal. There are three methods to achieving a sustainable building (REDUCTION, ABSORPTION AND PRODUCTION).
