Construction is progressing at pace on the France Pavilion at the Expo 2020 Dubai site. Philippe Mille, pavilion director, states that construction works are expected to conclude by June.

According to a statement, the pavilion is to be a symbol of the country’s participation in the event, as well as an emblem of the promotion of French innovation and experiential space for all visitors.

The pavilion was designed by the Atelier du Prado Architects and Celnikier & Grabli and was inspired by light. The pavilion’s design is based on three pillars of bio-climatism: Controlling solar gains, providing a highly insulating waterproof envelope and limiting the use of fossil fuels as much as possible.

“With the support of our talented team that has been working non-stop, as well as the immense support we have received from the team at Expo, we anticipate construction to conclude by June, with a complete handover shortly before the launch. The concept of the pavilion will bring to the forefront the interactivity and participation of all, which is an integral part of our public journey designed to interact with all types of visitors,” says Mille.

Mille recently toured the site accompanied by Erik Linquier, general commissioner and architects Bernard Mauplot from Atelier du Prado and Jacob Celnikier from Celnikier & Grabli.

The pavilion’s façade, and a canopy hanging at a height of 15m and drawing a sky of 1,500sqm, will form an artificial screen and sky. This will become dematerialised day and night in an invitation and a prelude to the ‘Light, Enlightenments’ journey that the pavilion unfolds within it, the statement said.

Linquier says the pavilion will promote the French innovation model, which makes it possible to conciliate sustainable development and international business competitiveness for connected and sustainable cities and territories, serving the citizen and the common good.

“The pavilion will express, through its name, Light, Enlightenments, France’s singular and innovative vision in terms of ecological and inclusive transition, combining a strong architectural gesture with an innovative immersive scenography,” added Linquier.