Zaha Hadid's Architectural Legacy: From the Navi Mumbai Airport to Global Iconic Structures

The Navi-Mumbai International Airport has been constructed by Adani Airports through a public-private partnership arrangement.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the much-anticipated Navi Mumbai International Airport. This Rs 19,650-crore project was developed as a Public-Private Partnership between Mumbai International Airport Ltd (an Adani Airports Holdings Ltd subsidiary) and CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd). The architectural design was created by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), the firm of the late world-famous architect Zaha Hadid.

Selected through an international competition, ZHA's winning design takes inspiration from India's national flower, the lotus. The airport has been conceptualized as a contemporary gateway to India's financial hub and is expected to reduce the traffic burden on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

Zaha Hadid's Background

Zaha Hadid was a British architect of Iraqi origin celebrated for her revolutionary deconstructivist designs and significant contributions to modern architecture. She was born in Baghdad, Iraq, and initially studied mathematics at the American University of Beirut before relocating to London in 1972 to pursue architectural studies at the Architectural Association School of Architecture. In 1977, she became part of the Office of Metropolitan Architecture (OMA) and later served as an instructor at the Architectural Association.

In 1980, Hadid established her own architectural firm, Zaha Hadid Architects, in London. She passed away from a heart attack in Miami in 2016.

Notable Works by Zaha Hadid

Ordrupgaard Museum Extension, Denmark (2005)

For the Ordrupgaard Museum, Zaha Hadid designed an extension characterized by distinct, angular forms. The black concrete walls complement the surrounding forest environment.

Riverside Museum, Glasgow (2011)

The Riverside Museum in Glasgow features a distinctive zigzagging roof that creates a sense of movement. The interior houses transport exhibitions, while extensive windows allow natural light to illuminate the vibrant space.

MAXXI Museum, Rome (2010)

Rome's MAXXI Museum, dedicated to 21st-century art in Italy, is designed with interconnected hallways and gallery spaces that seamlessly blend together.

Guangzhou Opera House, China (2010)

The Guangzhou Opera House consists of two curved structures constructed from glass and granite. Located riverside, it is designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings while providing a venue for world-class performances.

Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Abu Dhabi (2010)

Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Bridge features steel arches that mimic the shape of sand dunes. The bridge illuminates at night, becoming a luminous landmark that connects the city to the mainland.

Heydar Aliyev Center, Baku, Azerbaijan (2012)

The Heydar Aliyev Center is renowned for its fluid, undulating design that resembles waves.

Capital Hill Residence, Moscow (2011)

The Capital Hill Residence is a private home with futuristic architectural elements. Located in a forest setting, it features elevated and connected spaces that offer panoramic views while preserving privacy.

London Aquatics Centre, UK (2012)

Created for the 2012 Olympics, the London Aquatics Centre has a roof designed to resemble a wave. The architectural concept allows abundant light to enter while maintaining an open, spacious atmosphere.

Port House, Antwerp, Belgium (2016)

The Port House integrates a historic fire station with a contemporary glass structure reminiscent of a ship's bow.

Galaxy SOHO, Beijing, China (2012)

This complex for offices, retail, and entertainment is known for its flowing form and connected by bridges. Shopping and entertainment facilities occupy the lower levels, while the upper floors contain workspace areas.