Austria’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka promises to be both a visual landmark and a cultural statement. Designed by BWM Designers & Architects in collaboration with facts and fiction, the project carries the theme “Austria. Composing the Future,” using music as a universal language to explore innovation, sustainability, and shared values. The pavilion’s centerpiece is a monumental wooden spiral, evoking a musical staff inscribed with the opening notes of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” Stretching 91 meters in length and 16 meters high, the spiral not only symbolizes harmony and optimism but also showcases Austria’s expertise in timber construction. Built entirely with screws, it’s designed for full disassembly and reuse—a powerful gesture toward circular design and environmental responsibility.
Behind this sculptural landmark lies a modular exhibition building, guiding visitors through a sensory journey. The experience begins with Austria’s musical and cultural heritage, then invites visitors to interact with oversized musical notes that reveal the country’s innovations in technology, education, and sustainability. The visit culminates in the “Cathedral of the Future,” a contemplative space where guests can help imagine visions of tomorrow. The pavilion also includes a café serving Austrian specialties, a VIP lounge, offices, and a viewing platform atop the spiral. By bridging tradition and innovation, and pairing sustainability with spectacle, the pavilion positions Austria as a forward-thinking, collaborative nation on the global stage.
