Roma-based Nemesi & Partners have unveiled their project for the Palazzo Italia, the pavilion that will host Milan Expo next year. The company’s plan calls for an innovative building that will generate its own electricity while purifying the outdoor air.

The external facade of the six-storey structure will feature over 900 panels made from a special type of air-cleaning cement.

“In direct sunlight, the active principle contained in the material ‘captures’ certain pollutants present in the air and converts them into inert salts, helping to purify the atmosphere from smog,” the architects explained.

The Palazzo Italia will be fitted with a photovoltaic glass rooftop to generate solar energy during the day.

While the facade creates a unique geometric texture of shadow and light within the building, the internal structure of the Palazzo Italia was inspired by traditional Italian villages, featuring a central square surrounded by four blocks that will provide additional spaces for social events, offices, meeting rooms and temporary restaurants for Expo attendees.

The facade will feature over 900 panels made from a special type of air-cleaning cement.

Last year, Nemesi & Partners won an international competition held to decide who would design the pavilion. Since then, they have been working with a group of engineering firms and sustainability consultants to ensure the 9,000 square metre building will be complete in time for the Expo 2015....Continue Reading