Heydar Aliyev Center

The design deliberately avoids straight lines. The surface folds up out of the surrounding plaza, wraps over the building and returns to the ground, so there is no obvious front, no clear edge, and no point where the structure visibly meets the earth.

Hadid's stated intention was to break from the rigid, monumental Soviet architecture that dominates much of the city. Set against those buildings, the contrast is the entire argument.

The engineering required to achieve it was substantial: a space frame system with a specialised cladding of glass-fibre reinforced concrete and polyester, allowing the surface to curve continuously without visible joints or seams.

The interior functions as a cultural centre, with an auditorium, gallery spaces, and a museum covering the life of Heydar Aliyev. There is also a well-regarded collection of restored classic cars, strong on Soviet-era marques.

Interior exhibitions are ticketed separately from the free exterior plaza. Many visitors come only for the outside, which is a legitimate choice, the building is the attraction.

The white surface is difficult in harsh midday sun, which flattens the curves and blows out detail. Early morning and late afternoon light works far better, raking across the folds and revealing the geometry.

The surrounding plaza is designed for this and gives multiple angles. Walking the full perimeter is worthwhile; the building reads completely differently from each side.