Belén showcases cascading sustainable installations at Dubai Expo

Belén, a design studio based in Amsterdam, is currently showcasing their work as part of the Dutch pavilion at World Expo Dubai 2021. Their immersive installations, designed in collaboration with V8 architects, perform the dual role of temporary demarcating structures as well as cascading installations that highlight the importance of circular design. For the Netherlands Pavilion, situated in the Sustainability District of the expo and themed on ‘Utilising Water, Energy and Food’, Buro Belén or Belén was invited to perform experimentations with respect to materials. They installed two designs: a curtain that demarcated the spaces in the pavilion with grace and a canopy developed out of bio textiles. Besides catering to aesthetics, the importance of technology has also been promoted through the showcases that have remained on display at the Dutch pavilion for the past six months.

Based in Amsterdam and founded by Lenneke Langenhuijsen and Brecht Duijf, Belén is a design studio that focuses on the experimentation of materials. They do so by delving into their theoretical research as well as with material applications. By attempting to understand the interdependence and influence of the human population and environment on each other, they gain insight into the offerings of different materialities while also establishing an understanding of the ideal way of treating these materials. Their experimentations manifest into products, textiles and wearable accessories as well as large scale designs, all of which prompt sustainable living. By paying special attention to the interconnectedness between nature and man, they have developed a holistic approach in their practice, one which enables them to weigh the textures, colours and materials in totality. Their recent contribution to the exposition is part of their self-initiated research project called Sun+, which focuses on materials and applications that offer sun protection. It highlights the compassionate approach that the studio entails in its practice.

With a dominant presence of biomaterials in their designs, the curtains and canopies installed by Belén at the DutchDubai pavilion appear like standalone installations of their own accord. The laser cut patterns that dot the surfaces of these fabrics further enhance their appearance. These patterns, silhouettes of date palms, moringa, mangrove and oleander, reflect the rich history of UAE. The Curtain is made out of a large 44 metre wide and 14 metre long pleated fabric that has been created out of a plant-based source and is thus, renewable. These free flowing sheets emit a sense of warmth and fluidity against the structured sheet piles that border the pavilion.

The Canopy, on the other hand, is made out of a newly developed material that serves as an effective and sustainable alternative to polyester. Additionally, it is also characterised by features that make it more resistant to the harmful UV rays, compared to other synthetic options. At the same time, it allows UVB rays that are responsible for producing Vitamin D in the body, to distil through their surface. Not only does it feature as an effective material for the canopy, but also poses as an example of a great outdoor material.

The curtain and canopy within the Dutch pavilion make up for an enigmatic space, one that enchants and pricks curiosity at the same time. By combining aesthetics with technology, and sustainability with wellness, the materials offer a view towards a future where objects and products can satisfy the dual purpose of aesthetic and effective showcases. In keeping with the essence of sustainability and circular production, the fabrics from the pavilion will later be re-used in alternate locations for different usages.

The installation by Belén at the Dutch pavilion in Dubai will remain on display until 31 March 2022.