Futuristic Architecture of Baku

Looking at modern architecture of Baku, Azerbaijan, I start to think that soon this city will have one of the most futuristic looks on the planet. Even ten years ago it was impossible to predict how the city image will change over the time. Some of the projects are already completed, some are still under construction they are plenty of proposals. When you see those buildings you begin to doubt if you look at the real city or watch American fantastic movie with action taking place somewhere in 2080s. Here some of the most prominent of them:

1. Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center. One of my favorite projects which has started in 2007 is now almost completed. It is Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center which was created by famous architect Zaha Hadid. I must say that all projects of Zaga Hadid amaze me with its boldness, innovation and creativity.  The building will accommodate conference center, museum and library.  It has amazing location and fantastic shape. Its fluid forms look great in the surrounding landscape and seem even more incredible inside the building. In 2012 there was a soft opening however there are still some ongoing works inside the building and it is not open for the public yet.

2. Flame Towers. This was another most discussed project in Azerbaijan. Its estimated cost is US$350 million. It was also launched in 2007 and it is almost completed now. The roof height is 190 meters and it is one of the tallest buildings in Baku which can be seen practically from every city point. The design of the buildings was inspired by fire flames since Azerbaijan is known as the “Land of Fire”. Complex consists of three towers and includes Fairmont Hotel, offices and apartments. The buildings look unbelievable during the night time: digital display screens are installed in the facades and the whole building turns into a huge fire flame.

3. Crystal Hall. It is the main arena in Azerbaijan which was built by GMP International GmbH to host Eurovision 2012 Song Contest . It has very complicated geometrical shape resembling several crystals joined together.

4. Park Bulvar. A modern shopping mall located on Baku Boulevard hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, cinema and entertainment center. The total cost of project was US$41,5 million.

5. Azersu Office Tower. Contract for this project was signed by Heerim Architects & Plannersin August of 2012. The architectural look has organic forms and resembles a drop of water. The building will be located on Heydar Aliyev Avenue.

6. SOCAR New Management Building. It is another project which will be accomplished by Heerim Architects & Planners. The skyscraper will be 149.4 meters tall and it will accommodate offices of State Oil Company.

7. Baku Olympic Stadium. The construction started in 2011 and is scheduled to be finished in 2015. The project is accomplished by Turkish company TOCA. The architectural structure is formed by five interconnecting shells overlapping each other. The capacity of the stadium is 64000 people. Interior design will be as futuristic as an exterior and will reflect current modernistic trends.

8. Mixed Used Center. Ordered by Arena JSC this project was launched in 2008 by Austrian Architectural company COOP HimmerB(l)au and its cost is US$190 million. The height of the building is 150 meters.

9. Central Bank Of Azerbaijan. Another project undertaken by COOP HimmelBlau is still on the planning stage. Fully glass building has interesting twisted shape.