Expo Roof

Hannover exhibition grounds

As the landmark of EXPO 2000 at the Hannover exhibition grounds, this gigantic roofscape made of wood impresses with its sculpture-like effects. With a height of 26 metres, the roof spans an area of 16,000m² and consists of individual canopies, each measuring a 39m x 39m area. Four pavilions constructed in wood can be found below the roof, separated by generous open areas with reflecting pools. Each canopy consists of four double-curved panel areas with side lengths of 19m x 19m and a diagonal span of 28 metres, four overhanging supports and a supporting tower structure with a steel pyramid as the central hub at the top. The panel areas are of a Brettstapel construction (a timber panel system without the use of glue and nails), with ribs crossing at right angles. The four tapered supports of the towers at diameters of approx. 70cm at the bottom and up to 110cm at the upper end consist of a reversed fir trunk which was cut lengthwise and subsequently re-joined.

ObjectEXPO roof

LocationHannover exhibition grounds

BuilderDeutsche Messe AG, Hannover

ArchitectsHerzog & Partner, Munich

Structural engineerIEZ Natterer GmbH, Wiesenfelden
Ingenieurbüro Bertsche, Prackenbach

Built byIng.-Holzbau Cordes GmbH & Co. KG, Rotenburg

Completed2000