Pavilion of the Northern Countries in the Venetian Giardini

In 1958, a competition was held for the design of the Nordic countries' pavilion in the Venetian Giardini, allowing Sweden, Norway, and Finland to exhibit together. Three prominent Scandinavian architects were invited to participate in the competition: Klas Anshelm from Sweden, Sverre Fehn from Norway, and Reima Pietilä from Finland. Ultimately, Fehn's project won, and the pavilion was officially opened in 1962. The rectangular exhibition area of 446 m² opens completely to its surroundings on two sides, while the remaining two sides are solid and set into the ground. The roof is formed by two rows of overlapping slender reinforced concrete ribs (6cm x 1m). The regular rhythm between the ribs of 52.1 cm is only interrupted in places where mature trees pass through (or previously passed through) the roof. The Scandinavian pavilion pays tribute to construction, offering a spacious exhibition area with diffuse natural lighting. At the same time, it is a perfect example of the dialogue between architecture and nature and the blending of the interior with the exterior.