Expo 2020 Landmark proposal by MEAN*

‘Expo 2020 Landmark’ proposal amalgamates technology, innovation, and sustainability into an iconic structure that serves as a welcoming icon to the event.

MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network) is an innovative architecture practice that works at the nexus of design and emergent technologies that designed the Expo 2020 Landmark proposal.

They utilize cutting edge computational design processes and digital fabrication tools to leverage the quality of architectural solutions. Computer programming, robotics, 3D printing, AR, VR, and CNC manufacturing are some of the technologies we use to leverage our work.

MEAN’s mission is to amalgamate computation, material research, and digital fabrication, to provide interdisciplinary solutions that respond to current economic, environmental and social developments.

Designed to be assembled at the Boulevard Roundabouts of the site, the 8-meter structure soars high revealing a walk-through spatial forest of 3D Printed Concrete elements that resemble Palm Trees and are fitted with branching LED lights.

The structure can be viewed from the cars circling around the roundabout upon which it sits or enjoyed by exploring the spaces between the 3D Printed ‘Palms’ towards an open space.

Based on the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, we aspire to make Dubai the 3D Printing Capital of the World.

MEAN* designed a structure specifically for 3D printing in concrete.
Robotically 3D Printed Concrete construction has been lauded for saving on material waste by reducing the amount of form-work involved in the process of casting, as well as providing a cleaner construction site, all while allowing for a higher degree of complexity in design.

The elements generate energy during daytime hours via the transparent, bespoke solar panels attached to their tops. Activeskeen TM Aesthetic Photovoltaics are specified for this intent.

At night, the concrete 3D printed elements become animated with various lighting modes, welcoming the visitors to the event.

The footings of the concrete elements are fitted with hidden LED lighting, programmed to glow with various patterns.

The Expo 2020 Landmark is designed for longevity in the harsh desert climate with very little maintenance. Taking its inspiration from bio-mimetic performance, it is a self-reliant energy generator that absorbs abundant Sun energy to power itself.

The solar panels are fitted around 360° at the center of the roundabouts, to capture the maximum amount of energy throughout the day, and tilted to expel sand from sandstorms.

The 3D Printed Shell components can be cast in site with UHPC (Ultra-High-Performance Concrete) to effectively withstand the shear symbolizes forces acting upon them.

The Expo 2020 Landmark structure is designed to serve as a reminder that the World’s Fair site is built for generations to come, an urban connection between Dubai and Abu Dhabi and a model of the innovative cities of the future.