The Ultimate Guide to Metaverse Architecture Biennale '23
By Decentraland, , in Announcements
Jump to: List of Pavilions | Schedule of Events
The first-ever Metaverse Architecture Biennale (MAB) is coming to Decentraland September 21-24, organized by Dearch Space, W3rlds, and Metancy. Under the theme ‘Presence of the Future’, it will feature 30+ breathtaking digital builds, pavilions, from a diverse collection of architects and a full schedule of programming. Over its 4 days, the inaugural event will also offer musical performances, parties, and panel discussions.
#MetaverseArchBiennale will bring together top, worldwide creators to manifest the significance of architecture and design in reshaping the Web3 ecosystem as a powerful platform for business and creativity. The event organizers welcome everyone to participate and witness the evolution of architecture in a changing world through this groundbreaking event.
Let’s jump into the Ultimate Guide to Metaverse Architecture Biennale in Decentraland so you can plan your tour and be sure not to miss a single event.
What to Expect from MAB
Inspired by the Venice Biennale and Expo, the Metaverse Architecture Biennale showcases virtual pavilions and worlds created by architects standing in the avant-garde of digital design with such names as Killa Design, LAVA, PLP, ATRIUM, Soomeen Hahm, Spaces DAO, DA!, Il Prisma, Syntaxis, SA lab, iheartblob, OBMI, Mariana Cabugueira Studios, and Illusorr. Moreover 17 participants from around the world were chosen through an open call, which had more than 90 entries, to contribute their projects to the Biennale alongside architects invited by the curators. These are the names of these talented studios: Meta Architects, Q63, PROm7 (by LABVA PRO), UIC Barcelona, Untitled. by Maria Touloupou, Space Lane, Shashwat Prakhar, Dariana Andrei, AXI+, Leonardo Marchesi, Experimentarq, NESA, NTAR, MFSG6, Akash Deep Ravichandran, Ostashova_architects, and The Ninjas.
Metaverse Architecture Biennale will take place in both Decentraland and the W3rlds platform—each participating architect is creating one installation for each metaverse platform, resulting in a total of over sixty spaces designed for the event. Attendees will have the opportunity to teleport between platforms, exploring virtual pavilions, engaging in interactive exhibits, and connecting with a global community of creators.
The true essence of the Biennale lies in its public program, taking place over September 21-24. It will feature cultural and entertainment events, including opening and closing ceremonies, lectures and public talks, an Architecture Carnival, and other events. The lecture program is promising a one-of-a-kind lineup of design and Web3 industry leaders, architects, and innovators, including representatives of Zaha Hadid Architects, UN Studio, HWKN, DressX, Artisant, MetaTrekkers, Wow Summit, Somnium Space, and other companies.
The topics discussed will include ‘From Metaverse platforms to the Metaverse’, ‘The Rise of Digital Fashion: What Can We Learn from the Industry in the Avant-Garde of Web3 Culture’, ‘Virtual Architecture Experiments and Practice’, ‘Business of Web3 and Metaverse: Trends, Expectations, and Real Cases’, and many more.
Getting Around
If you’re totally new to Decentraland, jump to our FAQ section to learn how to get started.
In this guide, all coordinate links will take you to the center of MAB activities (82,0). In the center of the plaza, all events will take place. Various pavilions will be arranged throughout the space. Maps on site will help you navigate to the pavilion of your choice.
For the best in-world experience with better graphics & a faster, more stable connection, use the Decentraland Desktop app instead of accessing via browser. Download Decentraland for Desktop on PC or Mac.
To stay on top of Events and Places of Interest, we recommend this guide and following #MetaverseArchBiennale on Twitter.
Metaverse Architecture Biennale Pavilions
Fragile Pavilion
Fragile Pavilion is a repository of sounds, memories, and knowledge that is essential to take with us from the past to make the future happen. These are bright moments that bring goosebumps or painful experiences that push us forward and prevent history from repeating itself. The past is gone, and we can't change it, but by facing it, we can hold onto valuable things. On this journey, there is something we can do about the future. The pavilion is a data-driven space co-created by people and AI.
A Meta Odyssey
A Meta Odyssey is an interpretative reimagination of "2021: A Steam Odyssey," which was originally an exhibition designed by Soomeen Hahm Design and Studio Igor Pantic, previously showcased at the SCI-Arc Gallery in 2021. The exhibition was conceptualized around the notion that making in Mixed Reality (MR) reinvigorates traditional craftsmanship by augmenting hand and material skills with the precision and formal possibilities of digital modeling—occupying the territory between purely automated, exclusively robotically-driven fabrication, and highly crafted processes requiring human labor.
Presence of The Future
Killa Design, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Beyond the echoes
This pavilion design takes inspiration from works of artists such as Kandinsky and Bosch. Although completely different from each other, they both have one thing in common: their unique understanding of space and how their compositions lingered between art and architecture. Bosch created fantasy-like sculptures that were inhabited, and this begs the question, why can’t we inhabit a piece of art?
Symbiocene Living: A Sumbiotecture Showcase
You’ll start the digital, geological journey in a mush-portal, whose cap offers refuge from the digital landscape. It blooms from the glowing mycelium network branching out underneath the rocky, mossy ground. The portal beckons explorers into the presence of a sustainable future.
The portal is akin to Saprophytic fungi, which are commonly found growing on dead or dying trees, logs, and decaying plant material. This mush-portal thrives on the decaying landscape of the Anthropocene (The Age of Humans), an epoch defined by homosapien’s impact on the Earth’s ecosystems and geology. The era is marked by climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Feeding on this destruction and decay, the mush-portal represents the dawn of the Symbiocene, a period of re-integration between humans and nature.
Presence of The Future
LAVA, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Mirror Worlds
World Poly-198354—virtual and indifferent to the physical world at the highest level—is the first experience encountered. It is the manifestation of everything possible; out-of-control in its obsessive display of polygons, colors, and sounds. Everything consumes and is consumed there, within.
From here we leap into World Poly-851, a space of measured balance, fully aware of the impact on the planet and the humans of tomorrow, where colors, polygons and sounds efficiently exist. From consuming all, now, unaware and disconnected from physical reality to creating something new without losing respect for reality’s other dimensions, and their future existence, we invite you to reflect on how these two worlds will be entangled from now on.
Your Digital-Footprint
Your Digital-Footprint is a virtual pavilion that reflects our cyberspace journey, subtly constructing an online self. We've moved beyond an exclusive physical identity; creating a memorable self for your future legacy is no longer confined to the physical world. In today’s era, every online minute contributes to shaping your digital self. No, it doesn’t need a face and no it doesn't require an avatar, it's preserved in every data fragment you leave behind in your online wake, right now, with each ticking second. Every scroll, every comment, every website visited, every accepted and even unaccepted cookie, whether public or incognito, you're constantly leaving a connected digital trace of You.
Proscenium
The Proscenium Pavilion is a play on generative AI imagery and super positioning of image with form, an array of spatial positions defining points of interest and wrapping spatial conditions. The architect in this situation, signifies a change, a conversation with alternate language models which determine the way we may or may not navigate both creativity and spatiality through the fine tuned LLMs of architects of past, present or future. A conversation with a master or a conversation with a novice, later projected through image and form. It invites us to challenge everything we know about the creation process, and allow it to be transformed as we approach it through the lens of new tools.
SWIRLSCAPE
Enter SWIRLSCAPE 1.0, a virtual gateway inviting you into Illusorr's digital universe within Decentraland's expansive landscape. Here, Illusorr's artistic motifs unfold, enveloping your senses and immersing you in a rhythm that defines the brand's innovative spirit. Experience the seamless fusion of ILLUSORR's creations with the perpetual motion of their iconic swirls. The pavilion transforms into a dynamic canvas, where light and shadow engage in a captivating dance, colors blend harmoniously, and forms interweave with precision. This intricate dance is thoughtfully guided by Illusorr's design principles. SWIRLSCAPE 1.0 extends an immersive invitation into an environment of endless creativity, urging you to become an active participant in the captivating narrative woven by the swirls.
Mindscape Travelers
Creators, Neural Trip, rely on AI-generated imagery rather than excessive modeling, being worldbuilders who create endless dreamscapes of memories and ideas where one can get lost—and find a new self.
The Mindscape Travelers Pavilion in Decentraland acts as a portal to the subconscious world. Intricate X-ray breathing structure looks absolutely ethereal compared to the overall toon style of the metaverse environment and welcomes anyone to jump in and make a deep mind trip.
(Un)limited Boundaries
Beginning with the concept of designing architecturally immersive pieces for avatar exploration, the creators of (Un)limited Boundaries conducted experiments merging form, space, materials, light, and movement to assess their interplay and user perception. Through tests with invited guests, they documented a matrix of glitches and novel architectural scenarios, revealing new metaverse architecture confines.
Absence and Presence
‘Absence and Presence’ is a pioneering metaverse pavilion that challenges architectural norms by creating a captivating space where reality and the virtual world blend seamlessly. The pavilion features a striking absence of traditional structure, with voids that intrigue and surprise. Its design seamlessly merges an aura of intrigue with a vibrant surge of vitality. At the core of the pavilion is an integrated elevator that symbolizes the fusion of physical and virtual elements. This pavilion embodies the metaverse's potential for architects to create innovative and immersive experiences, inviting visitors to question conventional architecture. ‘Absence and Presence’ is an exhilarating exploration of possibilities, where innovation and imagination harmonize to create a seamless blend of the real and the virtual, inviting you to step into a new dimension of architectural wonder.
Presence of The Future
[sintez], renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Meta Mansion
This project serves as the gateway for visitors, offering them a seamless entry point into the meticulously crafted Eleganza Hub. This space has been designed to centralize this project's symbolism at its core while actively engaging visitors in a dynamic and immersive journey. Visitors step into a world where they can interact with the vision behind this piece, taking each step as a deliberate move towards a richer experience.
EPHYRA
Ephyra is an experimental architectural statement, born from the deliberate deconstruction of its purpose and the harmonious formation of entities, serving as a gallery for independent digital artists, such as Andres Patricio, Jeff Cole, Justin Maller, Nolan Martin, and others.
At its core lies the concept of ‘ether’, symbolizing the upper layer of heaven in ancient Greek mythology—the celestial seat of the Gods. This divine association inspires Ephyra's aspiration to elevate art to a realm of spiritual transcendence. Embracing the essence of organic, Ephyra's architecture breathes with natural spirits, rooted in the principles of Shintoism, converging new rules and forms, giving birth to a new artistic cosmos.
SVET
In the virtual world of Decentraland, the canons of reality cease to have any meaning, the laws of physics do not work, a building can have absolutely any shell. The objects presented in Decentraland are a preview of the overall complex, consisting of seventeen objects. They are connected by a common spectrum of emotions and are located one after another. Their example shows the interaction of objects in a common chain: the transition from sensuality to amazement or vice versa. Once inside, you can open up the world of the emotion you’ve chosen, in the form in which it is presented to the author of the object. A person has to go through all the stages with complete immersion in the awareness of feelings.
Villete-verse, the pavilion of many pavilions
At the edge of the metaverse lies an empty realm of digital mesh, where variations populate the XYZ coordinates and promise new possibilities. With these concepts in mind, ‘Villette-verse, the pavilion of many pavilions’ is presented. Inspired by situationism, this pavilion will be a space where multiple realities, experiences, and structures coexist, evoking the feeling of being in different places at the same time. Instead of viewing space as a static and defined entity, the creators see it as a series of events and situations that can be constantly generated and transformed. Here, constructivism and parametricism help us populate the digital space without air or gravity.
‘Cyber Sanctum’ ; The Digital Ashram of Transcendence
The Untitled. the team by Maria Touloupou, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Hall of Eclipse
Space Lane, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Labyrinthine Ascent
Shashwat Prakhar, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Morpho Genesis: A Metamorphic Reverie
Dariana Andrei, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
METAVOXEL PAVILION
AXI+, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Uplifting spiral
Leonardo Marchesi, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
EXPERIMENTA
EXPERIMENTARQ, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
LingoVerse
LingoVerse, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Tesseract
In Decentraland, 'The Tesseract' is distilled into a sculptural marvel, offering visitors an intimate exploration of its geometric logic. This smaller-scale version provides an opportunity to delve into the immediate concept behind the pavilion. Guests can appreciate the fusion of dimensions in a more concentrated setting, all while preserving the enchanting interplay of light and form. This decentralized iteration serves as a contemplative space where visitors can ponder architectural innovation and the boundless possibilities of spatial design within a metaverse.
Hidden Loop
Discover the secret encounters that the Hidden Loop is offering and get lost inside an endless loop of meditation, tranquility, and the duality of nature and technology, past and future. This space is inspired by the concept of blending nature and technology, and the mutual relationship between them. It evokes the serene ambiance of a cave, where we can imagine a pre-digital era, and it also illustrates how nature can harmonize with the emerging technologies in the future.
Epsilon 13_Ralm Equipoise
Akash Deep Ravichandran, renowned for their original architectural and design solutions, has created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Probability Prediction Center
This pavilion is, symbolically, the shards of our civilization washed ashore in another universe after billions of years. We think about what they will be like & whether we can reach such a level of development that would save them and transfer to the new world. We show possible scenarios for the evolution of the world, so that everyone can reflect. The life of one person seems small on such a scale, but it is important, & everyone can influence the future if they understand what direction to take.
Infinity Seasons
The idea of ‘Infinity Seasons’ encourages architects to use their imagination to change how we experience the seasons. It's like a challenge for designers to think about a future where the seasons aren't just ordinary times of the year but instead become exciting and interactive.
The main goal is to show how nature and technology can work together in a good way. As this idea grows, it gives architects more chances to work together and come up with new ideas. It asks them to rethink what seasons mean to us. Instead of the usual four seasons we know, ‘Infinity Seasons’ wants to take people on an exciting journey through a world that keeps changing all the time. In this world, buildings and nature mix together in a way that's hard to explain, and as time passes, each season brings new surprises.
ARTISANT Pavilion
Organizers of the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale created an innovative Web3 architectural project for the NFT-marketplace ARTISANT, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Designboom Pavilion
Organizers of the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale created an innovative Web3 architectural project for their main media partner, Designboom, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Women of The Future Pavilion
Organizers of the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale created an innovative Web3 architectural project for their partner, Women of The Future, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
WOW Summit Pavilion
Organizers of the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale created an innovative Web3 architectural project for their partner, WOW Summit, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
DressX Pavilion
Organizers of the First Metaverse Architecture Biennale created an innovative Web3 architectural project for their partner, DressX, a digital fashion marketplace, transforming the idea of the ‘Presence of the Future’ theme. More information about this project will be available at the Biennale.
Schedule of Events
Panel Talks, Musical Performances, & Parties
Opening Ceremony
September 21 | 3pm UTC | (82,0) Presence Hall | Event Link
Start celebrating bright ideas and MAB’s community of participants! In this ceremony, event organizers will tell you about the event's key ideas, including a virtual space guide showcasing top architects and their Web3 projects, and will navigate through the planned public program, full of insightful talks with Web3 creators and businesses.. Welcome to the historical Web3 experience, the 1st Metaverse Architecture Biennale!
Panel Talk: Virtual Architecture Now
September 21 | 3:30pm-5pm UTC | (82,0) Presence Hall | Event Link
The ‘Virtual Architecture Experiments and Practice’ panel discussion features renowned professionals in the field of architecture. Web3 stands as a revolutionary technology, transforming the traditional two-dimensional internet into an immersive world. Architects, skilled in building three-dimensional spaces, are also experienced in designing elegant and functional environments within this Web3 realm.
Their role in shaping the virtual landscape is as pivotal as their influence on the physical world. Speakers will discuss their recent experiences and unique approaches in architectural and digital projects, sharing insights on innovative tools and best practices. With their extensive experience in creating both physical and virtual spaces, highlighting how virtual environments are transforming architecture.
Speakers: Soomeen Hahm (Soomeen Hahm Design Ltd) Filippo Lodi (UNStudio) Christian Tschersich (Lava) Matthias Hollwich (HWKN Architecture)
Opening Set with MetaDJ
September 21 | 5pm-6pm UTC | (82,0) Presence Hall | Event Link
Following the panel discussion, the Biennale transitions to an immersive musical experience. MetaDJ, a community-driven metaverse DJ based in Decentraland, will kick off the opening party. MetaDJ is known for curating immersive auditory experiences that foster human connection and is committed to utilizing blockchain and metaverse technologies to create memorable and inspiring moments. This session will combine music, technology, and the metaverse to set the tone for the Biennale's festivities.
Panel Talk: Business and Communities in the Metaverse
September 22 | 3pm-5:30pm UTC | (82,0) Presence Hall | Event Link
The metaverse has already attracted a significant number of users, enthusiasts, businesspeople, and creators, giving rise to a new Web3 culture. To gain insights into navigating the metaverse, effectively positioning your business, and selecting the right tools, industry-leading entrepreneurs have been brought together to share their expertise and impact on businesses and brands.
The panel discussion, ‘Business of Web3 and the Metaverse: Trends, Expectations, and Real Cases’, will dive into the latest trends and expectations while presenting real-world case studies that showcase the potential benefits of Web3 applications for brands. This one-day focus on business during the Biennale is your opportunity to grab the essentials of building a business in the metaverse. It can only be found at the Biennale, so make sure not to miss out!
Hiroyo Music Live Performance
September 22 | 5:30pm-6pm UTC | (82,0) Presence Hall | Event Link
To add a creative and cultural dimension to the day, Hiroyo Music, a Tokyo-born Japanese artist, will deliver a live musical performance. Her style blends jazz and Latin influences, offering a unique and captivating musical experience. Hiroyo Music is not only a musician but also an NFT creator, highlighting the intersection of art, music, and technology. This performance is an opportunity for attendees to enjoy the fusion of art and entertainment in the metaverse.
Hiroyo Music's Instagram, YouTube
Panel Talk: Metaverse Tools and Trends: From Platforms to Fashion
September 23 | 2pm-5pm UTC | (82,0) Future Hall | Event Link
Today, a multitude of creators and digital fashion businesses will take part in programming. Simultaneously, there are numerous metaverse platforms, each employing its own unique approach to building a business. To achieve the best results, it's essential for these two businesses to collaborate seamlessly and create a unique product.
On the third day, you will discover the differences in approaches between these two creative business directions, directly from the creators of these tools. Key industry figures, including Regina Turbina (Artisant), Nataliya Grimberg (Somnium Space), Olga Chernyshova (DRESSX), and Roman Ryabokon (Virtual Racks), will share insights during the discussion on ‘The Rise of Digital Fashion - What Can We Learn from the Industry in the Avant-Garde of Web3 Culture?’
Their talks will focus on the emergence of digital fashion and its significance within the context of web3 culture, highlighting the innovative approaches and experiences of these entrepreneurs in the field of web3 business. Visitors will receive expert guidance on excelling in the Web3 arena and get valuable advice on the effective implementation of innovative concepts. A diverse lineup of talented speakers, industry experts, and individuals recognized for their achievements in various fields welcomes you to the Biennale!
Panel Talk: Architecting the Metaverse
September 24 | 2pm-5pm UTC | (82,0) Future Hall | Event Link
The ‘Architecting the Metaverse - A Conversation with Pro Metaverse Builders’ panel discussion features notable metaverse builders and architects: Fatemeh Monfared (SpacesDAO), Mariana Cabugueira, Neal Robert (bem.builders), and Andrew Lane (digby).
The metaverse is currently evolving, and architects, despite their extensive experience and traditional perspectives, are also keeping pace with progress and creating new immersive environments. Architects are developing new tools and approaches for this, and it's not as straightforward or commonplace as it may seem at first glance.
Experienced experts in architectural thought will share insightful information about their craft, how they entered the Web3 industry, and how they adapt their work to feel as effective as possible in this new environment. The discussion will cover the evolution of their digital design methodologies and forward-looking perspectives on architecture and design in the Web3 era. The organizers are also truly honored to have Patrik Schumacher, a renowned figure in architecture and the Director of Zaha Hadid Architects, deliver insights on innovative architecture projects and promise to inspire a day of innovation and creativity in this dynamic field.
Metaverse Architecture Carnival
September 24 | 5pm-6pm UTC | (82,0) Future Hall | Event Link
88 Miles Per Hour will provide a musical oasis of calm at the end of the event’s public programing. 88 Miles Per Hour is known for their unique musical performances, blending live rap, funky bass, and AI singers. They are the Metaverse DJ Battle Champions - Mr. Big Mouth and PhutureMusic, and their show promises to be a tranquil journey with soothing rhythms. It's an opportunity for attendees to unwind and enjoy the musical talents of these artists.
To celebrate the last day of the Biennale, participants will have the chance to explore various facets of architecture within the metaverse, from expert insights to innovative design strategies and a musical experience that complements the creative atmosphere of the Metaverse Architecture Biennale.
See you at the first Metaverse Architecture Biennale! Stay up to date by following #MetaverseArchBiennale on Twitter and the event’s official account on Instagram.