Architect of the Grand Ring, wood as a symbol of coexistence
“A future marked by respect for the diversity of cultures, the multiple contexts of our societies, and the different thoughts. Differences which, however, we must be aware of, can end up creating divisions. Therefore Expo Osaka 2025 as a meeting place” . This was told to ANSA during a guided tour of the site by architect Sou Fujimoto, the creator of the Grand Ring, an entirely wooden structure with a circumference of two kilometers that will surround the national pavilions of the various countries present at the Exhibition universal from April to October in Japan’s second largest city.
Among the different types of wood used, Japanese cypress and hinoki, as well as European red cedar, are mainly reinforced with metal to comply with anti-seismic criteria. The wooden beams support a sloping roof, 20 meters high at the highest point, designed to protect visitors from the elements during their visits. And it is precisely the construction in this material, according to the Japanese architect, which recalls the key message of the event: “This large ring is made of wood, and represents a clear statement to try to address nature while guaranteeing the sustainability of the environment , without however neglecting the necessary push towards the technology of the future”, concludes Fujimoto: “I therefore like to combine history and future to create a wonderful coexistence between nature and artefacts, as a symbol of sustainability for the future”.
