ZHA Unveils 198-Hectare Urban District Around Baku Expo Center

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has been commissioned to create a 198-hectare urban area named Baku Expo City, which will encircle the Baku Expo Center in Baku, Azerbaijan. This marks ZHA's second venture in the city, following their work on the Heydar Aliyev Center in 2013. The master plan emphasizes the preservation of 92% of the 18,000 existing trees, focusing on forest conservation. It includes neighborhoods designed for pedestrians and cyclists, along with civic facilities. The initiative supports Baku's 2030 transportation plan, improving links to the city center and airport. Additionally, the project incorporates green roofs for thermal insulation and stormwater management, while addressing local wind conditions to ensure public spaces can be utilized throughout the year.