Zaha Hadid Architects Releases Amazing Video Tour of Saudi Arabian Research Center

Zaha Hadid Architects - King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre

Unless you happened to visit the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre (KAPSARC) when it opened to the public for Saudi Design Week, not many have been able to enjoy the Zaha Hadid Architects masterpiece up close. But now, a gorgeous video by German photographer Hans Georg Esch showcases the research center in all its glory.

Over the course of 7 minutes, viewers are brought along for an unprecedented look at the work. From sweeping, bird's-eye views over the geometric, undulating roof to glimpses of the sleek, modern interiors, the video is an incredible look at the ZHA's first LEED platinum building. The sprawling 17-acre campus was created from a modular design that easily allows for expansion.

Canopied courtyards, geometric cutouts in the facade, and open plans contribute to the building's layered effect, one that was conceived to build transparency between the visiting public and the researchers. KAPSARC, which was one of several designs by Zaha Hadid prior to her passing, was recently shortlisted in the Higher Education and Research category of the 2018 World Architecture Festival awards.

A new video showcases Zaha Hadid Architects' masterful King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Zaha Hadid Architects - King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre

Zaha Hadid Architects - King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre

Zaha Hadid Architects - King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre Interior

Watch all seven minutes and prepare to have your mind blown.

Zaha Hadid Architects: Website | Facebook
h/t: [designboom]

All images via Hans George Esch.

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Jessica Stewart

Jessica Stewart is a Staff Editor and Digital Media Specialist for My Modern Met, as well as a curator and art historian. Since 2020, she is also one of the co-hosts of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. She earned her MA in Renaissance Studies from University College London and now lives in Rome, Italy. She cultivated expertise in street art which led to the purchase of her photographic archive by the Treccani Italian Encyclopedia in 2014. When she’s not spending time with her three dogs, she also manages the studio of a successful street artist. In 2013, she authored the book "Street Art Stories Roma" and most recently contributed to "Crossroads: A Glimpse Into the Life of Alice Pasquini." You can follow her adventures online at @romephotoblog.
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