The proposal that was chosen is titled ‘A New Dawn’ by architectural firm RAU, experience design studio Tellart, engineering and consultancy firm DGMR and Japanese construction company Asanuma. The winning design will be presented in both Japan and the Netherlands on 5 June 2023. Circular and sustainable construction is a key principle in the design and execution of the Dutch pavilion, as it was at EXPO 2020 in Dubai. Architectural firm RAU is an international leader and pioneer in the field of circular buildings and architecture. Reuse of materials and natural resources is central to RAU’s philosophy. Tellart, an international experience design studio specialising in immersive storytelling and emerging technologies, contributes extensive practical insight into creating visitor experiences for World Expos. Engineering firm DGMR specialises in solutions for a safe, sustainable and healthy physical environment. The partnership with Japanese construction company Asanuma provides a strong Japanese network, the necessary experience in construction in Osaka and knowledge of local requirements.

‘With the winning design, we will soon show visitors to the Expo in Osaka the innovative solutions that we can offer in areas such as energy transition and climate change,’ said Liesje Schreinemacher, Dutch Minister of Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation. ‘Japan has great ambitions in this respect and is greatly interested in the rapid transition that is taking place in the Netherlands in this field. This pavilion provides a nice stage where visitors can learn about our innovations and technology in an inspiring way.’

The choice of this consortium is the result of an EU tender by RVO for the design, construction, maintenance and finishing of the Dutch pavilion. A total of 12 proposals were submitted. In addition to awarding the contract to one of the tendering parties, the remaining applicants will receive financial compensation. The European tender for the exploitation of the pavilion will be published before this year’s summer on tenderned.nl. There are also opportunities for companies, knowledge institutions and cultural organisations to participate in programming and/or sponsorship prior to and during Expo 2025 in Osaka. More information will be made available during the presentation of the design of the Dutch pavilion on 5 June 2023, both in the Netherlands and in Japan. Expo Osaka will take place from 13 April to 13 October 2025. The organisers expect to welcome around 28 million corporate and private visitors, of which about 90% will be from Japan. This edition is themed ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’ and will be about shaping a world in which major crises, such as around climate and health, will determine liveability. We congratulate RAU, Tellart, DGMR and Asanuma on this fine achievement and are very proud of the fact that the entire Dutch pavilion will be registered in Madaster and provided with a material passport. More information on Expo 2025 Osaka