Scientific Center in Saudi Arabia by Zaha Hadid

London architect Zaha Hadid presented a design for a scientific center for oil research near the Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh. The new building for Arab King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz resembles an enlarged cellular structure and is named KAPSARC, which stands for “King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center.” As the name suggests, the main task will be to study the most important raw material in the Persian Gulf region.
Zaha Hadid's project consists of a three-dimensional network of hexagonal cells that are interconnected. The building is complemented by a number of outdoor spaces such as atriums, gardens, and roof terraces. The architecture is intended to encourage social gatherings—both spontaneous and deliberately planned. The focal point of the research center is the so-called “Hub,” where several research teams will collaborate. Another important location in the project will be a library that will not only store knowledge but also serve as an exhibition hall and a place for educational events. Additionally, a multipurpose hall, several smaller halls, and meeting rooms are planned. Close to the scientific center, housing and recreational facilities for scientists and their families are also to be developed.
The authors aimed for their project to have as minimal an impact on the environment as possible, and they successfully obtained a platinum LEED-Standard certification. A special roofing system is designed to mitigate extreme heat, excess sunlight, and immerse the building in “soft daylight.”
At night, KAPSARC will shine like a crystal into the surroundings using LED lights, which will be ecologically powered by photovoltaics during the day.
In recent years, Zaha Hadid has introduced one project after another in the Persian Gulf, but none have yet been realized.