I think anywhere you go you will find someone with an opinion of Hadid and the projects that come out of her studio. For whatever reason, we find her consistently interesting to talk about, and her projects seem to generate a considerable buzz, if not her persona. Some are interested in the work, and some aren’t, but all in all we will still talk about it. I think it harks back to the initial feelings that are invoked by the projects. They don’t require a lot of over-intellectualization to get into the images, representations or diagrams. That is not to say that there is no intellect behind the projects themselves (many would argue differently as simply form making), but either way I don’t think it matters. The projects are engaging. They push boundaries visually, and are evocative both inside and outside in that realm. Add to that many types of innovation that preclude the projects to being built, as well as ways of literally developing those ideas conceptually, and I think you have something that stands up fairly well against a more “cerebral” approach.

I hate to see projects get marginalized because they supposedly offer nothing other than being seductive. Seduction insinuates an immediate satisfaction with little long term value, which I think tends to not be the case. Furthermore, there is considerable effort made, and thought that goes into the achievement of that goal - it doesn’t simply spew out of a computer. It also I think is a testament to the people that work on these projects to produce consistently beautiful drawings, renderings, documents (I had a chance to look at the KSA’s book series on the BMW building), and diagrams.This is not a Zaha praise session (I don’t think she needs any additional back-pats), but more a thought that applies to any project or firm that may seek a similar outcome.

Recently I came across a proposal for the Buiness Bay area of Dubai. This is from World Architecture News‘ project write up.

The Opus project will be fringed by the Burj Dubai development. It will be neighbors with the Dubai International Financial Center and the World Trade and Convention Center, giving it a prestigious location with excellent access to the city. The Opus will appear to hover from the ground. Constructed of three separate towers the building will appear as a singular unified whole, with a distinctive void. The interiors of which will be clad with a fully engineered curved class curtain wall to allow for eye-catching views into the void. Reflexive fritting patterns in the form of pixelated striations will be applied onto the glass facade to provide a degree of reflectivity and materiality to the cube while assisting in the reduction of solar grains inside the building. Within the Opus there will be a retail podium across the ground, first and second floor. The uppermost floor will feature a tranquility zone, a beach deck with a reflective pool and shaded roof terrace, a media zone and a gym. The building boasts an AAA-class rating and has 87 per cent space efficiency.

Make of it what you will.

MS