Scape

The internal discussion about a preferably lasting landmark for EXPO 2000 lead to the design of the virtual architecture 'visionscape'. The discourse about computer generated architecture – which was highly topical around the turn of the century – suggested representing the world exhibition with such a symbol. The concept ironically exhausts the unlimited dimensions of virtuality: the bud-like shape of 'visionscape' rises above the Expo grounds up to a height of two kilometres. Inside a 4000 sqm exhibition hall the interactive event site 'scape' was realised as a physically tangible segment of this immaterial construct.

The topic defined in the context of the programme of cultural events was intended to inspire young people to an experimental approach to new media. 'Scape' was designed as a multilayered perception space which enabled physical and virtual experiences at the same time: In several lounges with different themes visitors could alter their surroundings atmospherically using interactive installations. Some of these interfaces linked the real space 'scape' to the virtual communication space 'visionscape.de' which detached the project from its dependence on space and time and transferred it to a globally accessible level.

The design of both the real and the virtual architecture was developed from the conceptional approach of 'genetic architecture' which achieved its first realisation in this project. The organically shaped, textile structures were designed with reference to computer simulated growth processes. They symbolise the increasing convergence of biology and technology.