Zaha Hadid Architects' forthcoming ventures poised to reshape the skyline
Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) continues to dominate the contemporary architecture scene, led by a board of directors and principal Patrik Schumacher, who carry on the studio's groundbreaking legacy. Known for pioneering major projects like the London Aquatics Centre, Rome's MAXXI Museum, and the Guangzhou Opera House, this firm is consistently at the forefront of design.
Here's a glimpse into some of their ongoing projects that blend tradition with modernity:
Misk Heritage Museum 'Asaan', Saudi Arabia
Construction is underway for the Misk Heritage Museum in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This three-storey building, the firm's first constructed from adobe, uses local, historic Najdi architecture to celebrate national heritage. Featuring insulating adobe walls, shaded courtyards, and protective shading devices, Asaan promises to withstand the desert climate.
Oystra, UAE
ZHA has revealed the design of Oystra, a mixed-use development on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaima. This 128,000-sq m project will feature 950 residential units, shopping, dining, and leisure amenities. Over 75% of the apartments offer stunning ocean views, and the development incorporates fluid geometries, large balconies, landscaped gardens, pools, and a beach club.
Embracing sustainability, Oystra uses solar shading, natural ventilation, and seawater-based cooling to reduce energy demand in the UAE's arid climate.
Greater Bay Area Sports Centre, China
Expected to complete in 2025, the Greater Bay Area Sports Centre in Guangzhou will serve as a community hub with high-quality sports facilities. Paying homage to Song Dynasty sailing ships and Lingnan (Cantonese) architecture, the sports centre boasts a 60,000-seat stadium, a 20,000-seat arena, and a 4,000-seat aquatics centre. Energy-efficient elements like natural ventilation and sweeping pleated roof fans are integral to the design.
Cityzen Tower, Georgia
ZHA's first project in Georgia, the 42-storey Cityzen Tower in Tbilisi's Saburtalo district, is scheduled for completion in 2028. Sitting within the new Cityzen development, this 57,000 sq m structure will house residential apartments, leisure amenities, workspaces, shopping, dining areas, pedestrian routes, and extensive outdoor areas. Inspired by Tbilisi's topography, the sleek tower features terraces cascading towards Central Park, offering communal outdoor spaces.
Napoli Porta Est, Italy
Working on a masterplan to rejuvenate Naples' neglected eastern side, ZHA plans to transform derelict industrial zones into a sustainable district. This project, focusing on infrastructure, green spaces, and energy efficiency, seeks to improve access, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainability. The masterplan will also feature a new Campania Region headquarters.
Centre of Mediterranean Culture, Italy
ZHA has started construction on the Centre of Mediterranean Culture in Reggio Calabria. Symbolizing the strategic location between eastern and western Mediterranean cultures, the centre will serve as a cultural gathering space, showcasing Calabria's seafaring history. With exhibitions, an aquarium, conference facilities, and educational spaces, the building's design recalls the crest of a wave, and the interior is inspired by the sea.
Zhejiang Shaoxing Shangyu District Cao'e River Culture and Art Centre, China
This project, slated to be the centrepiece of a new cultural quarter, will showcase performances ranging from opera and dance to symphonies and musical theatre. Located on the Cao'e River, the centre's design features sheltered courtyards leading to terraced landscapes and gardens. Incorporating traditional pitched roofs and glazed tiles, the contemporary facade pays homage to local architecture while prioritizing sustainability, energy-efficient design, and photovoltaic panels.
The Delmore, USA
The Delmore, an 12-storey ultra-luxury condominium in Miami's 'Billionaire's Triangle', is ZHA's second residential project in the city. Featuring an exquisite facade adorned with sinuous curves and a unique flow-through canyon with a striking acrylic see-through pool, this oceanfront development boasts staggered wraparound terraces and shell-shaped fins to enhance privacy and shade. Construction began in 2022, with an expected completion in 2029.
[1] Wooden Folding Vector Architecture by Zaha Hadid Architects
[2] Zaha Hadid’s ‘Wooden Genesis’ Goes into Production for Baku
[3] Zaha Hadid Architects rethinks its famous Heydar Aliyev Center in Azerbaijan with wooden facade
[4] New Year's Greetings from Zaha Hadid Architects
[5] Sheikh Zayed Bridge by Zaha Hadid Architects
For more information and updates on upcoming ZHA projects, be sure to visit the official website or follow ZHA on their social media channels.
- Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) is exploring opportunities in the realm of finance and investing, with plans to venture into real-estate endeavors such as constructing sustainable residential structures like the ultra-luxury The Delmore in Miami.
- Continuing their pioneering work in architectural design, ZHA is also delving into innovative real-estate projects that champion sustainability, as shown in their mixed-use Oystra development in the UAE, which employs solar shading, natural ventilation, and seawater-based cooling systems.
