News archive

From conception to realisation

19 August 2015


UK Pavilion at Milan ExpoResearch carried out at NTU is currently forming a major part of the UK contribution at this year's prestigious World Expo in Milan – as a pavilion designed by alumnus Wolfgang Buttress (BA Hons Fine Art 1987).

The 2015 Milan Expo is now half-way through its six month duration and the UK Pavilion has recently welcomed its one millionth visitor.  Wolfgang’s giant aluminium lattice sculpture, the Hive, is the centrepiece of the UK Pavilion commissioned by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI). This installation provides an immersive experience for visitors, drawing-upon and showcasing ground-breaking work by University scientist Dr Martin Bencsik in monitoring the health of bee colonies.

Now Wolfgang has released a book, BE•HIVE, which documents the entire process from conception to realisation.  With a foreword by Herbert Wright of Blueprint magazine and contributions from Christopher Turner (Director of London Design Festival) and James Haldane (Design Editor of Architectural Review) - this
publication provides context and reveals the story behind the Pavilion. 

BE.HIVE by Wolfgang ButtressBE•HIVE includes sketches, drawings and photos, as well as recipes by Anton Mosimann - caterer at the UK Pavilion. Content is structured as a sequence of topical essays covering art, science, architecture, engineering and landscape. The multidisciplinary design team - including Wolfgang Buttress, Simmonds Studio, BDP and Squint Opera – explore the synthesis of their disciplines, documenting the entire process from conception to construction. 

BE•HIVE is designed and published by Wolfgang Buttress Studio.

Find out more and purchase the single edition or a limited edition signed copy.

Countries from across the globe are showcasing their creativity and innovation at the World Expo which runs until 31 October 2015.

Photograph:  UK Pavilion at Night, Courtesy of UKTI, Photographer Credit - Hufton+Crow