The winning Hungarian pavilion design for the World Expo 2010 Shanghai uses as its central element the so-called Gömböc. Invented by two Hungarian engineers, Gábor Domokos and Péter Várkonyi, the Gomboc is the world’s first self-righting object.
Designed by Tamás Lévai, the pavilion approached the Expo’s theme “Better City, Better Life” in a philosophical way. By highlighting Hungarian creativity, the pavilion’s design is based on a specific feature, the Gomboc, rather than entertaining visitors with shows and exhibits. The architecture and design of the pavilion itself expresses Hungary’s main message. In addition, the Gomboc has a close, ideological relationship with Yin Yang, both symbolizing the pursuit of balance and harmony. According to Lévai, “This is what Hungarians wish to achieve in urban development as well.”
