Heydar Aliyev Centre

Commissioned by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Heydar AliyevCenter was designed by architect Zaha Hadid to serve as a cultural hub. The building’s iconic flowing form was achieved through advanced engineering techniques and complex structural systems that required meticulous planning and collaboration. 

The structure takes full advantage of the width and the complexity of the site: a hill in the urban area of Baku, capital of Azerbaijan. The materials of the roofing panels become the pavement of the square creating semi-public places in which to stop to experience the city. The center is a multifunctional building which houses 1000-seat auditorium spaces for temporary exhibitions, a conference center, educational workshops and a museum. Its fluid form which Hadid designed as opposed to the severe architecture of the Soviet era is inspired by Arabic calligraphy and forms of traditional azerbaijani architecture. The building's largest column free spaces are enclosed by a curvy liner outer shell made of fiberglass reinforced concrete and polyester. This skin is installed on the load bearing structure of the building made up of an articulated system of concrete elements and a complex steel framework. The external facing in satin finish changes the appearance of the building from day to night. Without a main facade the architecture of the center is completely different depending on the angle from which you look. Manifesto of an idea of culture that is increasingly open, multiple and democratic.

Foto di Evgeny Matveev su Unsplash                              Foto di Alexander Popovkin su Unsplash                      Foto di Sàgâr Çhöûðhárý su Unsplash 

The interior spaces were designed to flow seamlessly with curved walls and open layouts that create a sense of continuous movement. Each area is defined by fluid forms that prioritize flexibility and openness encouraging interactions between visitors. The design minimizes wall and rigid separations, allowing the spaces to blend organically while still serving their distinct functions. This approach reflects Hadid's vision of the building that is both functional and experiential.