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Zaha Hadid works her magic at the University of Economics & Business, Vienna
Currently under construction, Zaha Hadid’s dramatic design for a new Library and Learning Centre rises as a polygonal block from the centre of a new campus (masterplan by BUSarchitecture) at the University of Economic & Business, Vienna.
Employing both inclined and straight edges, the structure takes the form of a cube whose sweeping lines separate as they move inwards. These edges become curvilinear and fluid to create a free-formed internal public plaza at the centre of the complex. Additional facilities are contained within a single volume which divides and then intertwines to enclose this glazed gathering space.
At 28,000 sq m the new centre is generous in size and will comprise of a ‘Learning Centre’ with workplaces, lounges and cloakrooms, library, a language laboratory, training classrooms, administration offices, study services and central supporting services, copy shop, book shop, data center, cafeteria, event area, clubroom and auditorium. Initiated through a two-phase competition in 2008 the project is slated for completion in 2012.
Zaha Hadid commented: “I am delighted to be working in Vienna as I have a close affiliation with the city. As a centre of research, the Library and Learning Centre is forum for the exchange of ideas. It is very exciting for us to be part of the University’s expansion.”
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