Zaha Hadid’s Stingray Raises The Roof

The 2012 Olympics will definitely not be lacking in surprise, inventiveness or risk-taking efforts. Whilst extremely well-calculated, the recent installation of the ‘stingray’ roof to the London Aquatics Centre slid down the final 20 cm with a much-anticipated (and perfectly timed) bang.

The building, designed by British architect Zaha Hadid, is situated at the entrance to the Olympic Park in the east end of London, and is comprised of an intricate and highly complex structure. Known for her innovative creations throughout Europe and the US, Hadid’s 2,800-ton roof relies here on only three concrete supports, aided by a series of steel trusses and a team of robust structural engineers.

The precise coordination of the roof’s position allows the building to remain sturdy but flexible, and is consequently capable of swaying, or enduring, the delights of London’s unpredictable climate.

The warning ‘NOT for light-weights’ comes to mind when viewing this striking piece of architectural mastery, recognized immediately for its wave-like shape and sheer immensity.

If preparations are a hint to the spectacle of the Olympic Games in London, then we simply can’t wait to see what’s fully in store for the summer of 2012.

____________
by Albertine Fox
Gloobbi Architecture

Bookmark Gloobbi
Share/Save