The Butterfly Pavilion’s shading roof is not only designed to be formally defining; it also serves to regulate the climate without putting a visual emphasis on the fact. Indeed, in addition to the shading it provides, the geometry actively supports the chimney effect, which funnels hot air over the roof and facade, while the water pools act as humidifiers, cooling inflowing air.

Beneath the pavilion’s shady golden roof is a glass cube: the polygonal pavilion is an artificial ecosystem, and its rainforest biotope – populated with countless butterflies – is housed inside a sealed climate skin. The biosphere’s steel structure is clad with a transparent gleaming facade, boasting organically shaped skylights that offer views out and into the roof structure. The light that enters and the shadows this creates, define the mood inside the biotope as if they were a leafy tropical canopy.

The rainforest biotope covers 230 sqm and boasts a spectacular landscape. Islands of tropical plants are embedded in a white 3D-modeled surface with an ornamental print that extends seamlessly across the entire floor and the walls. The custom-made 3D puzzle made of thermoformed KRION®, a mineral material, is covered with a special sublimation print, whereby no patterns repeat – it emulates the ornamental face of the roof. Over 500 exotic butterflies thrive in this biosphere, which is as artificial as it is natural, and can be observed during all stages of their development.