2010 SHANGHAI WORLD EXPO
MACAU PAVILION CONCEPT DESIGN COMPETITION

MACAU

THE "LANTERN OF THE LITTLE RABBIT"
1ST PRIZE,
JULY 2008

ARCHITECT: CARLOS MARREIROS

COLLABORATORS:
EDWARD TANG, LEI SAI CHEONG

THE "LANTERN OF THE LITTLE RABBIT" CONQUERED THE VOTES OF THE JURY AND WILL GIVE SHAPE TO THE MACAU PAVILION AT THE 2010 SHANGHAI WORLD EXPO

«Upon consideration of technical team opinions and intense discussions, the jury finally decided on the "Lanterna do Coelhinho" as the champion of the Competition. The championship will be blueprints of Macau Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai world Expo. It will showcase Macau's recent economic developments, social and cultural achievements through advanced multimedia technology and interactive features. It is expected to be one focal point at the Expo Site.

(...)"Lanterna do Coelhinho" has combined the outer design of a traditional rabbit lantern in the southern part of China with modern advanced technology and environmental architectural design to showcase Macau's cultural multiplicity.(...)

The assessment concentrated on the following keystones: (1) Feasibility: “Lanterna do Coelhinho” was graded the highest in feasibility, by means of building costs, construction technology and construction duration (6 to 9 months) set by the Expo. (2) Extendibility to other related items: Given the construction of Macao Pavilion is only the first step toward Macao’s participation in the World Expo, the entire project also includes related items such as production of internal exposition, entertainment, cultural performance, parades, Online Expo and souvenirs. The extendibility of “Lanterna do Coelhinho” into these related items is large due to its innovative design. The design includes powerful exposition features like a simulated internal exhibition room, a ceiling-screen resting theatre and children sliding. The design is highly aesthetic and practical. (3) Uniqueness and attractiveness: The World Expo will have more than 200 pavilions. While Macao Pavilion will be situated between two rectangular pavilions, “Lanterna do Coelhinho” can easily stand out given its balloon head and tail that can be hoisted and moved with music. Furthermore, the transparent outer wall of the design makes it possible to use lightings and colors to give different aesthetical effects in all angles. (4) Practicality in later implementation. It is of pivotal importance that the concept design can be put into actual construction technically. (5) Environmental concern: Macao Pavilion is a temporary construction, so it is more than necessary to bring in environmental concerns to avoid squandering. “Lanterna do Coelhinho” is powered by solar energy and steel-made. Usage of water is minimized and materials can be recycled.»

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