The Belgian EU Pavilion

Belgium has translated the “BetterCity, Better Life” theme into a pavilion that is characterised on the outside by neat lines in recyclable materials. The building has been designed and constructed so that it can be used again and for other purposes after the Expo, and is easy to dismantle and rebuild. A conscious decision was made not to build on the whole site, instead reserving around one third for green space. The building’s energy consumption has been optimised, for instance by limiting the use of glass to the north façade in order to reduce the building’s heat load. On the roof, 1100 m² solar panels generate energy for use by the kitchens and the restaurant. 

The inspiring overall concept of the Brain Cell, or neuron, inside the pavilion demonstrates the importance of science to the intellectual and cultural development of our society and symbolises our highly globalised and complex world with all of its communication facilities. It is a direct reference to innovation in the field of biotechnology, chemistry and nanotechnology. The Brain Cell also calls forth associations with the wealth of art in Belgium and Europe. Finally, this key concept represents Belgium as a crossroads of civilisation and centre of Europe, which has its own Expo space in our pavilion – a first in the history of the World Expo.
The outside of the building, which is unassuming and beautiful and modest in its simplicity – perhaps a nod to the pragmatic and rather unobtrusive nature of the Belgians – stands in stark contrast to the playful, intriguing shapes and materials of the Brain Cell on the inside.

Finally, the Brain Cell is a “sign of the times”, like the Atomium back in 1958: the monument in Brussels reflected the focus on industry and production at that time. Today the emphasis is on science and the knowledge economy, on activities that take place within people, things and systems.