Competition Launch and Organization
Slovakia has launched an architectural competition to design its national pavilion for EXPO 2027 Belgrade, formally beginning the country's preparations for the international exhibition. The project is being led by SLOVAKIA TRAVEL, Slovakia's national tourism promotion agency, with verification from the Slovak Chamber of Architects (SKA).
The competition process began with the first meeting of the expert jury on March 26, when final competition conditions were established. Organizers designed the framework to balance Slovakia's pavilion ambitions with practical feasibility while attracting strong submissions.
"Thanks to the chamber's professional approach, the competition is being carried out according to the highest professional standards and opens the door to a wide spectrum of architectural teams – from established studios to young talents," said Lukáš Parízek, commissioner general for EXPO 2027 Belgrade.
Pavilion Design Requirements
The competition calls for a complete architectural concept under the "Living Playground" theme. The pavilion will occupy 648 square meters across two above-ground floors in Hall 6 at the EXPO Belgrade 2027 site.
According to the competition brief, the pavilion must include a signature visual installation, an interactive public area utilizing technologies such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, a business zone, and a hospitality section featuring a Slovak restaurant and café with souvenirs.
Slovakia's presentation will be built around the concept "Slovakia – Playground of Opportunities," reflecting themes of play, innovation and progress, supported by the slogan "Where play becomes opportunity" and the subtheme "Play for Progress."
Jury and Prizes
An international jury will review proposals, including architect Peter Stec, who has worked at OMA and Herzog & de Meuron and contributed to projects including the extension of Tate Modern in London. The panel also includes licensed architects, a design expert and representatives of the organizer.
The top three entries will receive prizes totaling 29,000 euros. The winner will receive 12,000 euros, second place 10,000 euros, and third place 7,000 euros. The submission deadline is 10 a.m. on May 14, 2026, through the IS EVO system.
"EXPO 2027 is a unique opportunity for Slovakia to show the world our creativity, innovativeness and ability to deliver bold solutions," said Matej Fekete, director general of SLOVAKIA TRAVEL. "The architectural competition is the first step toward creating a pavilion that will be not only visually attractive, but also a strong story about Slovakia as a country of opportunity."
Strategic Significance
Slovakia was the first country to sign a participation agreement with EXPO 2027 Belgrade organizers. The country's presence is designed to advance long-term goals in economic diplomacy, tourism promotion, nation branding, and international cooperation. As the first world exhibition held in the Western Balkans, Expo 2027 Belgrade offers participating countries a platform to raise their global profile, promote trade and investment, showcase innovation, and deepen diplomatic and commercial ties.
Based on reporting by Exhibitor Magazine. Read the original article.