Scientific Center in Riyadh by Zaha Hadid

The latest project of the London studio Zaha Hadid Architects had to design without its founder. Perhaps also because the competition for the new museum and science center took place in the desert on the Arabian Peninsula, the ZHA office had an advantage, as Zaha Hadid’s work has always been close to the curves of shifting sand dunes. For the authors of the winning proposal, “genuine authenticity lies in the balanced ratio between tradition and innovation.”



The administrative center with a documentation and research mission is located in the historic area of Al Diriyah on the western edge of the capital of Saudi Arabia in a protected landscape stretching 120 kilometers through the Wadi Hanifa valley. The historical significance of the Al Diriyah area is evidenced by the fact that it is on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and the entire valley undergoes restoration of its original vegetation in addition to strict protection. The new center, with a total area of 8,780 m², is expected to feature exhibition spaces, classrooms, a library, and research rooms documenting this historically significant area. The design clearly reflects the character of the surrounding landscape. In the center of the layout, a covered "oasis" with an artificial lake is created. From the outside, its shape and color evoke the surrounding sand dunes. In designing the supporting structure and roofing, the architects were also inspired by nature, making the interior reminiscent of a grove shaded by palm leaves.

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