Corporate exhibition for UN-Habitat and venue branding at the 12th WUF in Cairo
Client: UN-Habitat, Nairobi
WUF12 (World Urban Forum) is the world’s leading conference on sustainable urban development, organized by UN-Habitat, and in 2024, it took place in Egypt. With over 24,000 attendees from around the globe, WUF12 served as a platform for discussions and innovation in urban planning, architecture, and sustainable development.
Lysth conceptualized and executed the design of a 900m² corporate exhibition for UN-Habitat at WUF12, and led the branding of the entire 20,000m² venue. The goal was to create a cohesive experience that combined aesthetics and functionality, with the event’s theme and visual identity contributing to an engaging experience for visitors.



We built a 600 m² heart!
At WUF12, our vision for UN-Habitat’s corporate stand came to life in the form of “The Heart”—a 600 m² immersive experience that celebrated the essence of home. This wasn’t just an exhibition space; it was a living, breathing concept brought to life, where each element reflected warmth, connection, and belonging.
From the welcoming entrance to the vibrant playground and the serene pocket garden, every square meter of this monumental design was carefully curated to embody the theme: “It All Starts at Home.” Visitors didn’t just walk through a stand—they journeyed through a metaphorical heart, experiencing what home truly means on a global scale.
This bold, dynamic centerpiece at the Urban Expo not only drew attention but also sparked meaningful conversations about sustainable urban living. It stood as a testament to the power of design to inspire, connect, and transform.
Take a closer look and explore the 600 m² that made “The Heart” the soul of WUF12.

Entrance – Welcoming and engaging, setting the tone for exploration. Living Room – Cozy and inviting, a place to connect with friends and chat in front of the fireplace. A oversize tv-table and sofa that could hold up to 90 pax was the setting. Bedroom – Serene and restful, evoking peace and rejuvenation. Playground – Vibrant and playful, showcasing creativity and joy. Pocket Garden – Green and nurturing, vertical urban gardening, a reminder of harmony with nature.



SoMe

Selected social media activities.
Facts / Organisaion: UN-Habitat. Exhibition design of 900m² corporate exhibition and leading the branding of the 20,000m² venue: Maiken Lyster Thonke, Lysth. Manufacturer: GCM
Photo credit on this page UN-Habitat, Lysth, others