Falcon-Inspired Qatar National Pavilion Lands at Rio+20

Important policy decisions weren't the only major happenings at <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/rio20/">Rio+20</a> this past week - there were also important architectural works to be seen like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/QatarRio20" target="_blank">Qatar's soaring, falcon-inspired National Pavilion</a>. The lightweight temporary structure was inspired by the wingspan of one of nature's most majestic birds. Designed <a href="http://grimshaw-architects.com/project/qatar-pavilion-rio20-un-conference-on-sustainable-/" target="_blank">Grimshaw Architects</a>' New York-based industrial design team, the Qatar Pavilion is an example of the country's commitment to investing resources in sustainable growth and development on a global stage. All of the materials were procured in Brazil through local vendors and artisans, and now that the conference is over the pavilion will be stored for future use in the country.

The <a href="http://www.facebook.com/QatarRio20" target="_blank">Qatar delegation to Rio+20</a> hired Grimshaw Architects to design a temporary pavilion for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The <a href="http://www.qnfsp.gov.qa/" target="_blank">Qatar National Food Security Programme</a> (QNFSP) used the space to present Qatar’s vision for innovative green growth and development.

Grimshaw's Industrial Design Unit in the New York office designed the temporary pavilion in less than five weeks and created an airy pavilion inspired by Qatar’s environment and rich cultural history.

Inspired by the wingspan of a soaring falcon, the structure features a structural frame and curved roof that arches over the exhibition space.

Since the discussions inside were dedicated to sustainability, the pavilion itself also had to adhere to strict guidelines for sustainability.

To reduce embodied energy, the project was designed so that all materials were sourced locally, including the structural frame, lightweight cover, furniture and more.

Local contractors and artisans were hired to construct the pavilion and now that the conference is over, they will deconstruct it and store it for use again in the future.

The 500 sq meter site features a translucent membrane roof that allows natural daylight in to reduce artificial lighting during the day.

Openings in the vertical walls allow for breezes to flow through the pavilion.