The challenge

It starts from a revolutionary vision of Metaform architects, a Moebius stripe creating the skin that flips inside-out of the pavilion of Luxembourg for the Expo Dubai 2020. The task to convert this great idea into reality is something Maffeis Engineering knows very well.

The idea of this envelope to recall infinity, the closed circle (as a perfect number 8), turns into reality with the use of a 3D steel grid-shell covered with a PTFE fiberglass membrane that lends itself well to this project.

For a surface of approximately 3500 m², the outer and inner membrane come together in unison and rest on the steel grid shell.

Seen from the entrance ramp as well as walking around and inside the pavilion, this gorgeous membrane is constantly visible and characterized by pleasant and sinuous curves. A note from the expert: Right material choice.

The external PTFE Fiberglass surface with good translucency and materiality turns into a more open and breathable fiberglass Mesh on the internal cladding. Like a silk dress on a harmonious and sensual geometry, designed by professional and passionate engineers focused at first on the excellent result of the project. That is what in Maffeis Engineering we are focus on.

On behalf of Taiyo Europe group and Metaform Architects, Maffeis Engineering performed the full construction design phase of the outer skin of the pavilion.