Novatop supplied 155 unique wooden elements for the Czech National Pavilion. Visitors can see them above their heads throughout the spiral
The Czech National Pavilion in Osaka, Japan, became the largest wooden structure of its kind without a steel supporting frame in Japan following its completion in April. With its original design, craftsmanship, and unique combination of wood and glass, it sets a high standard for multi-storey wooden buildings. In addition to Stora Enso, Novatop played a significant role in the construction of the Czech Pavilion, supplying the load-bearing wooden elements. The supplier has also become a partner of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025. The cooperation agreement was signed by Novatop's CEO Jiří Oslizlo and the Commissioner General of the Czech participation Ondřej Soška.
"We are proud to have contributed to the construction of the Czech Pavilion for EXPO 2025, which will not only be the largest but also feature a fully wooden supporting structure, which we consider to be the greatest victory," says Jiří Oslizlo on behalf of Novatop, adding: "We consider the Czech Pavilion to be a masterpiece of timber engineering. It is a bold project that will bring visibility to the Czech timber sector on the international stage. The experience we’ve gained enables us to deliver technically complex projects anywhere in the world, with maximum focus on quality, precision, and logistics.”
A key part of the pavilion’s iconic spiral structure —spanning 349 metres around the entire exhibition— is formed by NOVATOP’s wooden elements. Their production was preceded by several months of meticulous preparation, resulting in the delivery of 155 unique elements with a total volume of 114.3 m³ of wood. Each element had a complex, unique geometry, requiring hundreds of hours of detailed design and craftsmanship.
"The biggest technical challenge was the stepped element, 6.5 meters in length, which rests on partially cantilevered 7-meter elements with a continuous laminate. Its distance from the supporting core of the structure is truly impressive," adds Jiří Oslizlo. Thanks to the care and effort, the components fit together on site with LEGO-like precision. The wooden elements are visibly exposed throughout the entire spiral and guide visitors through the permanent exhibition.
"Japan has a fascinating and deeply rooted tradition of working with wood. From ancient buildings to contemporary furniture design, wood plays a key role in Japanese culture. That’s why we’re excited to present the work of the Czech timber industry in the Czech Pavilion. It is an incredibly positive reference not only for the companies themselves but also for the whole of Czechia. Our pavilion is already being visited and admired by Japanese media, industry professionals, and even high-ranking politicians before it officially opens. Czech assemblers worked alongside their Japanese counterparts, and the pavilion is a showcase of excellent international cooperation. After all, this is one of the main goals of current world exhibitions," comments Ondřej Soška, Commissioner General of Czech participation at EXPO 2025.
About Novatop AGROP NOVA produces products under the NOVATOP brand and specializes in three-layer solid boards and a comprehensive construction system. The production of these boards has a long tradition in Ptení, dating back to 1992, and continues to be one of the key pillars of production. The company’s strategy is not based on increasing production volume but on maximizing added value. Emphasis is placed on quality and meticulous craftsmanship, which has long been a strong argument in business relationships. Close collaboration with leading industry experts brings the company not only new challenges but, above all, opportunities to participate in groundbreaking projects. This strengthens NOVATOP's reputation as a Czech brand, which maintains a strong position on the international stage even in a competitive environment. Exports currently account for about 85% of total revenue and represent one of the main drivers of the company's growth. Key export destinations include advanced markets in Europe, particularly Switzerland – a country that is not only an endless source of inspiration but also a world leader in timber construction. The manufacturing facility in Ptení currently employs more than 230 people, whose expertise and commitment contribute to maintaining a high standard and further developing the company.
About the Czech National Pavilion at EXPO 2025 Czechia will be participating in a World Expo as an independent country for the sixth time. Since September 2022, the role of Commissioner General has been held by Ondřej Soška. The pavilion’s design – a glass spiral – was selected through an open architectural competition, which was won in March 2023 by Apropos Architects. The main structure is made of modern CLT wooden panels, while the façade features artistic glass, drawing on a centuries-old Czech tradition. The national pavilion provides a dignified setting for Czechia’s presence at EXPO 2025, which will take place from April to October 2025 on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay. Inside, the pavilion features a permanent exhibition, the multifunctional Daisue Hall auditorium, business meeting facilities, a restaurant, the CTP Lounge, and a seaside relaxation zone open to visitors in front of the building. Cultural performances take place almost every weekend from Friday to Sunday. The pavilion was officially approved for use in early April 2025 and stands as the largest wooden structure of its kind in Japan without a metal supporting frame. It officially opened to the public on April 13, 2025.
About the Czech participation at EXPO 2025 This will be the sixth time that Czechia has taken part in a world exhibition as an independent state. Ondřej Soška, who won the Ministry of Foreign Affairs selection process with his concept and theme "Talent and Creativity for Life", has been serving as Commissioner General since September 2022. Czechia aims to showcase not only what the Japanese already know and admire, such as Czech glass and classical music, but above all Czech innovations, nanotechnologies, promising start-ups and talent from the regions.
