Blue Ocean Dome Pavilion by Shigeru Ban at Expo 2025 Osaka – All photos are by Hiroyuki Hirai, courtesy of Shigeru Ban Architects.

Architecture. Shigeru Ban‘s Blue Ocean Dome Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is a statement in architectural innovation. The renowned Japanese architect constructed the three sub-domes using paper tubes and Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic, along with laminated bamboo, a specifically-developed material revealed at the Expo. Presented by non-profit organisation Zeri Japan, the pavilion seeks to enhance understanding of the oceans, raise awareness about the critical need to combat plastic marine pollution, foster a sustainable marine industry, and advocate for greater awareness of ocean climate change.

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“Looking at the history of World Expositions, pavilion architecture has in the past been a place for experimentation with ideas, structures, and materials for future buildings.” Explains Shigeru Ban. “Unfortunately, in recent years, this tradition has died out, and most pavilions have become simple ‘play of shapes’ relying on computer technology. We are now proposing new materials and structures that are unprecedented worldwide.”

Dome A is the world’s first architecture made from laminated bamboo as its primary structural component. This material offers greater stability and strength compared to wood, providing a viable solution to the issue of neglected bamboo forests.

Dome B is the first architecture to utilise CSRP—Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic—as its main building material, removing the necessity for piles. Carbon fibre is one-tenth the weight of steel but four times stronger. Due to its high cost, it is primarily employed in industries like aviation and automotive, where reducing weight is economically advantageous. “We are confident that the blue Ocean Dome will serve as a legacy for the Expo 2025 Osaka and as an example of advanced architecture.”

Built in an array similar to an atomic structure, Dome C features a recycled paper tube architecture. It hosts exhibitions and events of various organisations and sponsors, and functions as a networking centre.

All photos are by Hiroyuki Hirai, courtesy of Shigeru Ban Architects.