Vivienne Hartwig’s Post

🌐 Dream or Reality? Concerns Grow as World Expo Hit with New Delays ⏰ With less than six months to go before the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, significant concerns are emerging regarding the timely completion of the event's iconic timber structures, including the impressive Grand Ring Roof. As construction delays mount, the viability of this ambitious project is increasingly in question. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Construction Challenges: The construction of 157 pavilions, including the 12-meter-high “Ring Skywalk” and the surrounding exhibits, is reportedly months behind schedule. As organizers grapple with slow ticket sales—only 7 million of the 14 million target have been sold—questions arise about the Expo's future success. 2️⃣ Rising Costs and Political Tensions: The overall cost of the Expo has soared past $1.6 billion, nearly double the original estimate. Concerns about labour shortages and political infighting further complicate the situation, casting doubt on the project's overall purpose and sustainability in a rapidly changing world. 3️⃣ Iconic Timber Architecture: The Grand Ring Roof, constructed from timber sourced from Namie, Fukushima, represents not just an architectural feat but also a symbol of resilience, as it incorporates traditional Japanese building techniques. After the Expo, the structure is expected to serve a new purpose as part of a resort island that includes Japan's first casino. 🔗 To learn more about the Grand Ring Roof and the ongoing developments for Expo 2025, click here: https://lnkd.in/giXX57wx 🗣️ #questionforgroup: What strategies can be implemented to overcome the delays and challenges facing large-scale projects like the World Expo? How can we ensure that such events remain relevant and beneficial to society? #sustainability #construction #worldexpo #japan #architecture #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #glulam #masstimber #wood #engineering #architecture #woodsolutions #woodwork

⏰ One Year Until World Expo 2025: A Dream Island or a Costly Nightmare? 🏗️As Osaka prepares to host World Expo 2025, the 60,000-square-metre all-wood Grand Ring Roof is nearing completion. Set to become one of the world's biggest all-timber structures, this instant architectural icon on Osaka's 'dream island' embodies Japan's ambitious vision for the future. However, behind the awe-inspiring construction lies growing concerns about the viability and aftermath of the expo. 🔍 Key Insights: 1️⃣ Monumental Structure with Uncertain Future: While the Grand Ring Roof impresses as a feat of engineering and design, questions loom about its post-Expo use and the justifiability of its staggering $230 million construction cost. The plans to transform the site into a resort island with Japan’s first casino are now delayed, casting shadows over the financial and functional foresight of the project. 2️⃣ Construction Challenges: The Expo faces significant hurdles, including major construction delays exacerbated by a labour shortage affecting Japan's fourth-largest economy. With only a fraction of the pavilions underway and the total costs ballooning to over $1.5 billion, stakeholders express concerns over meeting the ambitious deadlines and budget. 3️⃣ Debating the Need for World Expos: Amidst the preparations, there is a broader contemplation about the relevance of World Expos in the modern era. While historical expos like those in Paris and Seattle have left lasting legacies, there is scepticism about the necessity and impact of such grand events in today's context. 🗣️ #questionforgroup: As the costs and challenges of hosting mega-events like World Expo 2025 escalate, should cities and countries continue to pursue these ambitious projects? What is the balance between showcasing innovation and managing practical, financial, and environmental constraints? 💬 Let’s discuss the implications of Osaka’s Expo 2025 from an architectural, economic, and cultural perspective. Please share your thoughts on how such events can be designed to ensure they leave a sustainable legacy and justify their enormous investments. 🔗 For a comprehensive overview of the developments and dilemmas surrounding Expo 2025 Osaka and the massive timber structure at its heart, delve into the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gQ5ysnqX #expo2025japan #expo2025 #osaka #japan #construction #sustainablearchitecture #worldexpo #expo #construction #wood #timber #masstimber #masstimberconstruction #engineering #timberconstruction #timberengineering #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #architectureanddesign #costs #greenbuildings #woodenconstruction #futureofbuildings #woodsolutions #makeitwood #greenbuildings #netzero #netzeroconstruction #buildings #netzero2050

I am thrilled to share this exciting news - The Government Office of the Republic of Lithuania and The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) announced the winner of the design contest for the Baltic Pavilion at the international exhibition “Expo 2025 Osaka”. The winning concept features a unique interactive installation that creates a meditative space, highlighting the interaction between nature, people, and technology. The centerpiece of the design is a green glass wall symbolizing our planet, including the Baltic green forests. Using unique technology, condensation forms on the glass, turning the wall into an interactive platform where every visitor is invited to leave their message. This prompts philosophical reflections on the footprints we leave on the planet during our lives. Each message fades after a few minutes, creating a new platform for the next symbolic ‘footprints,’ thus symbolizing the 21st-century challenge of building a socially responsible and environmentally friendly society. This intuitive experience resonates emotionally with every visitor, regardless of gender, age, language, and religion. It invites us to unite for a better future. Visitors to the pavilion will be invited on a sensory journey through the Baltic region, providing an unforgettable experience for all senses: the exhibition will be enveloped in the scents of the Baltic forests and soil, complemented by specially composed musical accompaniment from Latvia and Lithuania. The pavilion entrance will be remarkable as well: it is made of smart glass that can change its optical properties. When activated, it forms a unified entrance to the pavilion; when deactivated, it reveals products available for purchase. #BalticPavillion #EXPO2025 #Osaka 🇱🇹 #CoCreateSolutions

🌟 Are you attending the upcoming fair? Let's connect! Drop me a message, and I’ll schedule a personal meeting to discuss how we can boost your business. Here’s why meeting us could be a game changer: 📈 Tailored solutions that fit your unique needs 🤝 Dedicated support from our experienced team 🚚 Efficient logistics that keep you ahead Looking forward to exploring synergies together! Why do you think personal interactions at fairs are pivotal for business growth? Let's chat in the comments! 👇 #BusinessGrowth #B2B #Networking #TradeFair #Innovation #Logistics #CustomerSupport #BusinessDevelopment #Meetings #ProfessionalNetworking

The reason why the locals are opposed to holding the event is obvious and convincing - the ruling prefectural party’s true intention is beyond the Expo. They plan to bring casino afterwards to the place where the Expo will be constructed. The ultranationalist regional party, Ishin, the supplementary party for LDP, has tremendous amount of vested interests due to the casino construction, and holding the Expo is only a pretext. They are making money using the two different occasions, killing two birds with one stone. They have never disclosed the decision making processes on neither construction bidding, nor architectural decisions of both events, no matter how strongly civil society demands for clarification. Nobody wants the casino in town out of various reasons. And everybody knows that the underneath of the site is filled with methane gas. That’s why the toilets under construction there were exploded just recently, and no local media covered if the particular construction worker was injured or not due to the self-censorship. Although Ishin had initially demanded the local elementary schools to have their school excursions at the Expo, some school principal expressed concern and decided not to take their kids to the dangerous site. Who can expect ‘bright future’, as the event’s propaganda says, with the dark event at the smelly site, literally??

Stand Design Tip A well-designed exhibition stand isn’t just visually stunning—it invites engagement. At Al Mafahim, we design stands that encourage visitors to explore, interact, and connect with your brand. What’s your priority for stand design: functionality, creativity, or both?

HIDDEN GUEST: SAVA CENTAR Sava Center may seem like a brand-new congress centre, but its name betrays a prosperous decades-long history. Thanks to the regenerative renovation of the venue and new planned investments, this area of Belgrade has acquired a congress district in dimensions not found at any other destination between Vienna and Istanbul and Milano and Baku. Sava Center’s original design was hybrid – merging congress, cultural, business and shopping functions. The shopping area once looked like a precursor of modern shopping centres. We were fascinated by how the architects revamped the shopping area and made it look refined. In hindsight, it may sound grandiose that Sava Center announced it would connect north and south, east and west. But, after opening, that is precisely where it positions. Much like during its inauguration, the look of the congress centre divides visitors; some argue it would suffice to demolish the centre and build anew, while others vociferously advocate the aesthetic intervention was a success. We consider ourselves among the latter. Sava Center earned its cult status because of its inclusivity and outward approach embedded in its DNA. We hope the new owners will not promote exclusivity only. As long as the centre remains open to the region and the world, we herald a bright future for Sava Center. Sava Center once challenged its regional competitors so much that they could not rival it. Will history repeat itself? Time will tell, but as the final phase of the renovation of the Sava Centre concludes, the region has a new heir-apparent. Regional competitors will need to go the extra mile to edge out the Serbian pioneer. Sava Center was built and reconstructed to play in the Champions League of the meetings industry. FINAL GRADE: 4.98 THREE MEETING STARS ⭐⭐⭐Convention Centre 3 MEETING STARS ⭐⭐⭐ final score from 4.81 to 5.00 2 MEETING STARS ⭐⭐ final score from 4.61 to 4.80 1 MEETING STAR ⭐ final score from 4.41 to 4.60 Read full story on KONGRES MAGAZINE #SavaCenter #CongressCentre #Belgrade #Renovation #HybridDesign #RegionalLeader #EXPO2027 #GlobalSuperstar #MeetingsIndustry #HistoricLandmark #InnovativeDesign #ArchitecturalRevamp #SerbianPioneer #InclusiveApproach #BrightFuture #Modernization #CongressDistrict #UrbanDevelopment #Eventprofs

🌟 **Navigating Exhibition Stand Contractors in China: Key Questions to Ask for Success! 🇨🇳** Embarking on an exhibition journey in China and seeking the perfect stand contractor? Here are essential questions to guide you in selecting the ideal partner for your exhibition stand needs: 1️⃣ **Experience and Expertise:**   - How extensive is your experience in constructing exhibition stands in China?   - Can you showcase past projects that highlight your expertise in the Chinese market?   - What industries or clients have you collaborated with previously? 2️⃣ **Design and Customization:**   - How do you approach custom stand design to ensure it aligns with our brand and goals?   - Can you accommodate specific design preferences or thematic requirements for our stand?   - What steps do you take to ensure our brand identity shines through in the design process? 3️⃣ **Materials and Quality:**   - What materials are typically used in your exhibition stand constructions?   - How do you guarantee the quality and durability of the materials utilized?   - Are there options for eco-friendly or sustainable materials for our stand? 4️⃣ **Logistics and Installation:**   - What is your process for transporting the stand to the exhibition venue in China?   - How do you handle the installation and dismantling of the stand during the event?   - Will there be on-site support provided to oversee the stand setup? 5️⃣ **Compliance and Regulations:**   - How do you ensure adherence to local regulations and safety standards in China?   - Can you confirm that the stand will meet all necessary compliance requirements?   - Do you carry insurance coverage for the construction and installation phases? 6️⃣ **Cost and Budgeting:**   - What is your pricing structure for building an exhibition stand in China?   - Are there any additional costs or undisclosed fees we should be aware of?   - Can you work within our budget constraints while delivering a stand of high quality? 7️⃣ **Client References and Testimonials:**   - Could you provide references from previous clients who have engaged your services for exhibition stands?   - Do you have testimonials or case studies showcasing successful projects in China?   - How do you ensure client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle? Selecting the right exhibition stand contractor in China is crucial for a successful showcase. Ask these pertinent questions to find the perfect partner for your exhibition journey! 🚀 Best of luck in your exhibition in China! 🌟🇨🇳

DOMOTEX Middle East Continues its Growth in Dubai with Expanded Venue Building on the momentum of the previous year, DOMOTEX Middle East reinforces its position as the leading platform for carpets and flooring in the MENA region. This expansion reflects the significant interest from exhibitors and the thriving flooring market in the Middle East, creating even more business opportunities for industry professionals. “The Middle East is seeing a continuous boom in sectors such as construction, development, real estate, and interior design, leading to sustained demand for carpets and flooring solutions,” says Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Global Director of DOMOTEX Events. “With the flooring and carpet market projected to grow at an average rate of 7.2% annually, and expected to reach a value of $14.55 billion by 2030, Dubai is ideally positioned as the trade hub to host this prominent industry event.” Reflecting on his return, Amir Ghanbarinia, Managing Director of Heritage Carpets, states: “After a successful participation in DOMOTEX Middle East 2024, we are excited to return in 2025. The trade fair is an important brand in the flooring and carpet industry and provides the perfect setting in Dubai to showcase our handmade carpets to an engaged professional audience. It attracts exactly the right target group, allowing us to maintain existing customer relationships and establish numerous new connections.” Dubai’s strategic location and world-class infrastructure continue to make it the ideal setting for DOMOTEX Middle East. Known for its welcoming culture and global connectivity, Dubai offers a seamless experience for exhibitors and visitors alike. Mahir Abdulkarim Julfar, Executive Vice President of the DWTC, commented: “We are delighted to host DOMOTEX Middle East once again at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This prestigious event will enhance our already diverse events calendar for 2025, showcasing DWTC’s status as a leading venue in the region and beyond. Our commitment remains to support event organizers and contribute to their success by offering tailored, world-class solutions. We look forward to another successful partnership with Deutsche Messe.” With the added hall and expanded exhibitor lineup, DOMOTEX Middle East 2025 will bring together top brands, emerging innovations, and key industry stakeholders under one roof, offering unmatched networking and business opportunities for flooring professionals in the MENA region. https://lnkd.in/eRjMg8Ni #DOMOTEXMiddleEast #FlooringIndustry #CarpetsAndFlooring #DubaiEvents #MENARegion #InteriorDesign #ConstructionTrends #RealEstateDevelopment #GlobalTradeShow #DWTC #BusinessOpportunities #HandmadeCarpets #EventExpansion #IndustryNetworking #InnovativeFlooring #MiddleEastMarket #TradeShowDubai #GlobalConnectivity #SustainableDesign #LuxuryInteriors #FlooringSolutions #Expo2025 #CarpetInnovation #DesignExcellence

【DX設計館 🎊 快問快答 Part 2💬】 香港設計中心「DX設計館」將於12月4日正式對外開放，當中設有不同展示區域，可以同時舉辦多個展覽、工作坊和設計相關的活動，但是否只有由香港設計中心舉辦的活動呢？ 而「DX設計館」將如何與深水埗區形成互動？又如何促進香港的設計文化及社區參與？一起來聽聽香港設計中心策略發展總監林偉強的介紹！ 【DX design 🎊 hubQuick Q&A Part 2💬】 DX design hub, Hong Kong Design Centre's latest initiative, will officially open to the public on 4 December! With multiple exhibition spaces capable of hosting simultaneous exhibitions, workshops and design-related activities, does this mean that only exhibitions organised by Hong Kong Design Centre will be featured? What kind of interactions will DX design hub have with the Sham Shui Po community after its opening? And how will it promote Hong Kong’s design culture and foster community engagement? Let’s hear from Dr. Wallace Lam, Director, Strategic Development at HKDC, as he shares more insights! 緊貼最新資訊，立即關注我們 Stay tuned for our latest updates and follow us: FB: Hong Kong Design Centre IG:  hkdesigncentre LinkedIn：Hong Kong Design Centre WeChat: HKDC 香港设计中心 XiaoHongShu: 香港设计中心 #HKDC #HongKongDesignCentre #香港設計中心 #DXdesignhub #DX設計館 #CCIDA #CCIDAHK #文創產業發展處 #CSTB #文化體育及旅遊局