'Joy of Living' Piazza at the Expo's Italy Pavilion

In the four months since it opened in May, the Italy Pavilion at the Shanghai Expo has continued to surprise guests with a calendar rich of events, an approach it will continue in September.

The focus in September will be on architecture, design and green building featuring major Asian architects.

Events in store include a seminar on design and management of public spaces and the opening of a Frette workshop, where fine Italian linens will be superbly embroidered by skilled craftsmen.

Also on tap are a business seminar on the Italian luxury furniture industry and a conference on eco-efficient construction.

"We have had an exciting array of events over the last four months and these next two - September and October - will be even more rewarding," said Beniamino Quintieri, commissioner general of Italy Pavilion.

"Moving forward, we will continue to arrange events that highlight our strength in creating sustainable cities through pioneering design and technology. Specifically, September is dedicated to highlighting Italian excellence in the design of buildings that are environmentally, socially and economically viable, and will be for generations to come."

September opens with a seminar on contemporary architecture and innovative building materials presented by Fiandre Co with the presence of four important Asian architects - Cui Kai from China, Furuichi Tetsuo from Japan, Hwang Doojin from the South Korea and Vo Trong Nghia from Vietnam.

"The seminar on bio-habitat was jointly organized by Italian Trade Commission, ANVE and Federbio to illustrate new techniques and approaches to designing and managing green space in the urban context," said Quintieri.

Famed Italian brands Frette, Calligaris, Matteo Grassi and Alessi will split the month with one week of workshops each.

Another workshop by professional cabinetmakers Cassina will create signature pieces of furniture for the renowned designer brand.

Former Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi will join the gala to participate in a conference on Renaissance philosopher Pico della Mirandola jointly held by University of Bologna and Fudan University on September 10.

A "green week" between September 13 and 18 will include forums, conferences and training courses on how to combine environmental friendly policies with sustainable development.

Discussions will include "early warning systems to protect biodiversity in natural reserves" as well as panels on architectural design and technology.

A conference on eco-efficient construction has been organized by the Ministry of Environment of Italy in cooperation with the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, Tsinghua University of Beijing and Jiao Tong University of Shanghai.

An international conference on the effects of climate change on Venice will include a training course for public officials by Venice International University.

A two-session forum on architecture and urban planning will be held along with exhibitions by young Italian architects Carrino, Damato, Gregotti and Portoghesi.

Music and food are also part of the program. On September 6, the Italian Trade Commission will host a seminar on eco-friendly food and gourmet cuisine to focus attention on the development of China's bio-food market.

On September 9, the Emilia Romagna region will present its land of wine and host a classical music concert by renowned flutist Andrea Griminelli.

Another highlight in September will be performances by La Scala Philarmonic Orchestra.

The Italy Pavilion is offering visitors an experience ranging from technology and art to fashion, music and food. Top left: Tod's workshop. Bottom left: A concert by the Royal Theatre of Turin. Right: Sardinia fashion show.