SERBIA PAVILION Theme: Society of Play Size: 828 m² Entrant: Beyond Limits, www.expobeyondlimits.com Design: Aleatek Studio Fabrication: Beyond Limits KK Additional Contributors: Zarko Malinovic, Commissioner General; Jovana Stevic (Cultcrave); Florian Marquet (MAP); Li Xiaohua (Tsing Hua Yuan); Mirjana Karalic – Popovic (MUSE design); GL events KK (Main Local Subcontractor) Photos: William Mulvihill Videos: Silver Walks
The Serbian pavilion stands out with its Floating Forest concept — a living façade inspired by Belgrade’s Great War Island. Comprised of more than 5,000 living plants from over 15 different species, all carefully selected from local plant nurseries in Japan, the façade functions as a vertical forest — a living skin that wraps around the architectural body of the pavilion. As the only Expo pavilion with such a feature, it embodies biophilic design and environmental stewardship, constructed with over 95% recyclable and 80% reusable materials. Strategically located at the West Entrance and Earth Plaza, the pavilion became an instant attraction, drawing more than 10,000 visitors on its first day.
The pavilion’s spatial journey reflects the Expo’s Society 5.0 vision and previews Belgrade Expo 2027’s theme, Play for Humanity. Visitors ascend through an urban stair path, engaging with interactive installations, thematic urban furniture, and tactile and digital exhibits that highlight Serbia’s playful identity, creativity, and societal contributions. The experience culminates in the acoustically isolated Red Thematic Garden, a bold open-roofed retreat designed for contemplation and calm, offering a meditative contrast to the lively exhibitions.
Throughout the pavilion, bespoke urban furniture and a scale model of the upcoming Belgrade Expo 2027 reinforce the narrative of play and innovation. The ground level features a welcoming public area with integrated landscaping, seating, and event spaces, reflecting the openness and hospitality of Serbian culture.
Architecturally, the pavilion is both a spatial metaphor and a practical model for the future — its exterior green geometry and climate-responsive skin propose a new direction for sustainable, immersive architecture.
Ultimately, the Serbian pavilion serves as a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive space that celebrates play, sustainability, and the rich cultural spirit of Serbia, while inviting visitors to envision the future of urban living and global collaboration.
