Japan Unveils Stunning Pavilion Inspired by Ancient Marine Life

The Pasona Natureverse Pavilion, a striking architectural marvel inspired by a 400-million-year-old marine mollusc, has debuted at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. Created by the local architecture studio, The Design Labo, this innovative structure resembles a giant ammonite shell and serves as a symbol of life’s continuity, designed specifically for staffing company Pasona Group.

Satoshi Itasaka, CEO of The Design Labo, explained the pavilion’s deeper significance: “Coiled shells have changed little for roughly 400 million years. Having survived repeated mass extinctions without being eliminated, they may represent a ‘completed form’ of life.” This connection to ancient marine life aligns perfectly with the expo’s overarching theme of life, inviting visitors to explore the relationship between humanity and nature.

The pavilion spans an impressive 43 meters in width and features a smaller conch-like structure adorned with a sculpture of the beloved cartoon character NEO Astro Boy. The design does more than offer an aesthetic experience; it tells a story of evolution and resilience through its architecture.

Innovative Features and Sustainability

What sets the Pasona Natureverse Pavilion apart is its harmonious integration with nature. The building employs a sophisticated water-based cooling system, which applies a thin film of water over its surface to minimize reliance on traditional air conditioning. The spiral shape of the pavilion efficiently collects and recycles rainwater, repurposing it as grey water for various functions within the structure.

Inside, the pavilion comprises two shell-shaped areas that offer interactive exhibition spaces focused on physical, mental, and social health. Visitors can journey through three distinct zones—History of Life, Body and Mind/Bonds—each equipped with engaging digital displays. Among the highlights are a tree-shaped sculpture illustrating evolutionary history and a lab-grown heart made from biomaterials.

“It’s a blend of education and surprise,” Itasaka noted, referring to the dynamic exhibits that include moving LED displays and a zone showcasing heart cells derived from induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. The combination of art and science creates an enriching environment for all ages.

Future Plans for the Pavilion

Unlike typical temporary exhibition structures, this pavilion is designed for longevity. Utilizing a ball-jointed steel framework covered by a synthetic white membrane, the 43-meter-wide structure is easily demountable. After the expo concludes, it will be relocated to Awaji Island, where it will be transformed into a cultural center, thus granting it a meaningful second life.

As night falls, the pavilion becomes a breathtaking sight, illuminated by color-changing lights along its ridges. These lights enhance the building’s spiral form, making it appear almost alive as it glows softly in the darkness.

This project exemplifies that sustainable design can be both functional and beautiful. “We were reminded that biomimetic forms are not only structurally stable but also inherently beautiful,” Itasaka stated, emphasizing the aesthetic value of sustainability.

The Pasona Natureverse Pavilion transcends conventional architecture, serving as a meditation on time, evolution, and humanity’s role within the natural world. By drawing inspiration from ancient creatures that have thrived for millions of years, the designers have crafted a space that inspires both humility and hope. The pavilion stands as a testament to innovative design that respects the planet and captivates the imagination, showcasing a new paradigm for the future of architecture.