Frank la Rivière, Architects

Czech Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka

A Spiral Journey Through Life, Art, and Architecture

The Czech National Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka is a celebration of life energy, growth, and creative continuity—brought to life through a stunning wooden and glass spiral structure. Designed by Apropos Architects, the pavilion draws visitors along a 260-metre pathway that ascends four floors and culminates in a panoramic rooftop deck. This upward spiral symbolizes the passage of time, personal transformation, and the evolving spirit of society.

A Tribute to the Past, A Vision for the Future

Returning to Osaka 55 years after Expo ’70, the Czech Pavilion gently nods to its historical predecessor while boldly reimagining its future. The building’s translucent glass spiral and dynamic form pay homage to Czech glassmaking traditions while embracing contemporary design and innovation.

Strategically positioned at the intersection of the coastal promenade and main boulevard, the pavilion stands as an architectural landmark—its form expanding upward, defying gravity, and glowing with ever-shifting natural light.

A Living Experience

Visitors embark on a journey—physically and mentally—as they spiral upward through the pavilion.

• Interactive pathway: A continuous gallery that wraps around the central core

• Dynamic exhibition: Light, glass, and art evolve with the natural daylight

• Mind and body in motion: Architecture encourages movement; the art invites reflection

At the top, 12 meters above ground, guests reach the rooftop observation deck. Here, they’re greeted by sweeping sea views and a VIP Lounge, elegantly housed in the pavilion’s signature crown. A glass skylight reveals a dramatic view down into the central auditorium.

Descending into Culture and Cuisine

Visitors complete their journey via a staircase built into the structure’s double walls. This final descent leads to:

• The ground floor restaurant featuring authentic Czech gastronomy

• The multifunctional auditorium used for performances, lectures, and cultural events

• A second internal staircase connecting key spaces, including the restaurant, auditorium, and VIP Lounge

Accessibility is ensured by an integrated elevator located in the western section of the building.

The Auditorium: A Cultural Core

At the heart of the pavilion lies a 15.5-metre-diameter black box-style auditorium, designed to host a variety of programs. Encircled by the visitor path, the space includes:

• Tiered seating integrated into the ramp

• Smart spatial connections to the surrounding gallery

• Flexible partitions that allow for seamless or separate uses

Sustainable Structure, Natural Materials

Built from cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels, the pavilion showcases sustainable design and expert Czech craftsmanship.

• Exposed wooden beams and structures throughout

• Façade made from anodized aluminum frames and artistically sandblasted glass

• Outdoor decks built from local cedar wood

• Finishing touches include light grey metallic tiles

Featured Art & Installations

The visitor path is transformed into a gallery featuring renowned Czech artists:

• Crystal sculpture by Rony Plesl

• 200m+ mural narrative by Jakub Matuška (Masker)—a powerful visual story of human aspiration

• Multimedia installation by Lunchmeat Studio, weaving the experience together

• Bronze sculpture by Alfons Mucha (Nude on a Rock)

• Glass installation “Herbarium” by Lasvit

CREDITS

Client: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic (MFA CR)
Office of the General Commissioner of EXPO, Ceska Centra: Ondřej Soška, Akiko Sagae

Design Architects: Apropos Architects: Michal Gabaš, Tomáš Beránek, Nikoleta Slováková, Tereza Šváchová Design Team: Kryštof Jireš, Magdalena Havlová, Jana Watersová, Laura Lukáčová, Eva Gabaš Rosenová, Miroslav Slezák, Natálie Poláková, Alexandra MishchenkoVisual communication, competition exhibition concept and visual identity: Lunchmeat Studio: graffiti artist Jakub Matuška

Glass crystal sculptures: Rony Plesl

Local Architects: frontoffice tokyo: Koen Klinkers (Design Management & Site Supervision), Bill Galloway (BIM management) + Frank la Rivière Architects inc: Frank la Rivière (Architect of Record & Site Supervision) + mxa First Class Architects Office: Yoshikawa Misuzu

Structural Engineering: [Czech]general design concept A-2-Timber: Lukáš Krbec + [Japan]　Kusumoto Haruhide Structural Engineering office (Engineer of Record & Site Supervision) + Building Structure Institute KK+BSI

Mechanical Engineering: SAKAI AND ASSOCIATES: Fujimura, Naoya Sakai

Project management: BlueDot MGT L.L.C.-FZ: Rafaella Broft, James Duke, Riaan Herbst, Nishimori(FPC), Akiko Sagae, Akihisa Kageyama Architects, Limited.: Akihisa Kageyama

Coordination of professions / MEP: Robert Prix

Construction Company: Daisue Construction Co., Ltd大末建設株式会社

CLT load-bearing structure contractor: A2 Timber

Facade system contractor: WIEDEN s.r.o.

Artistic facade glass contractor: KOLEKTIV ATELIERS

Sheet glass contractor: AGC Flat Glass Czech

Art installations: Rony Plesl, Jakub Matuška aka Masker, Lucie de Angelis Drdova, Lunchmeat Studio

Photo: BoysPlayNice Photography & Concept (Exterior Images), Interior Images: Frank la Rivière