Zaha Hadid Architects has designed a cultural centre in Uzbekistan
Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has been announced as the designers of the Alisher Navoi International Scientific Research Centre in New Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This prestigious project aims to integrate several cultural and educational institutions, including the Navoi State Museum of Literature, a 400-seat auditorium, an International Research Centre, and a school specializing in Uzbek language, literature, and music. The design, which reflects the architectural heritage of Uzbekistan, is an exciting fusion of traditional and modern elements, paying tribute to the country’s rich cultural past.
The centre’s architecture is heavily influenced by passive design principles that ensure energy efficiency. The arched facades and interiors will be crafted using locally produced bricks, symbolizing Uzbekistan’s architectural heritage. The use of curvilinear geometries and traditional construction methods links the project to the region’s deep historical and cultural roots, particularly the influence of Alisher Navoi, a 15th-century poet, linguist, and statesman whose legacy continues to shape Uzbek culture.
The Alisher Navoi International Scientific Research Centre spans 23,000 square meters and is designed to encourage the exchange of ideas between literary education, research, and the performing arts. The centre will be a hub for cultural activities, with interconnected spaces that reflect a balance of tradition and innovation. The design will feature courtyards, inspired by local architecture, that allow natural light and ventilation, while offering spaces for gathering, reflection, and community events.
Anchoring a new cultural district in New Tashkent, a masterplan designed by Cross Works to accommodate the city’s growing population, the Alisher Navoi International Scientific Research Centre celebrates Uzbek literature and Shashmaqom music, a classical form that combines vocal and instrumental elements. This cultural nod emphasizes the importance of Tashkent as a center of artistic excellence, while also providing a modern space for learning and creativity.
One of the most striking features of the building’s design is its commitment to sustainability. Inspired by traditional wind towers used in Central Asia and the Middle East, the centre incorporates hollow arches that capture wind to provide natural cooling. This passive cooling system, combined with high thermal mass and natural ventilation, will ensure optimal comfort for visitors, staff, and students while minimizing energy consumption. In addition to this, courtyards and skylights will bring natural light into the building, while deep roof overhangs provide solar shading during the summer months.
The Navoi State Museum of Literature will serve as a cornerstone of the centre, offering an extensive archive of over 3,500 historical books and manuscripts. The museum will feature 13 permanent exhibition halls that chronicle the evolution of Uzbek literature, alongside contemporary works. This space will also house a restoration workshop and research programs that preserve and promote Uzbekistan’s literary heritage.
The outdoor areas of the centre are designed to evoke the dynamic nature of Shashmaqom performances, with landscaped terraces, amphitheaters, and shaded pavilions providing space for performances and gatherings. The Alisher Navoi International Scientific Research Centre aims to become a beacon of creativity and cultural preservation, bringing together traditional and contemporary art forms in a state-of-the-art setting.
Project Team
Design: Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA)
ZHA Principal: Patrik Schumacher
ZHA Project Director: Paolo Matteuzzi
ZHA Design Directors: Paolo Matteuzzi, Paulo Flores
ZHA Project Architects: Effie Nakajima, Karoly Markos, Luca Ruggeri, Davide Del Giudice
ZHA Project Team: Andrei-Ciprian Cojocaru, Canon Lee, Ceren Tekin, Diego Ariza, Ekaterina Smirnova, Jose Navarrete Deza, Keyur Mistry, Ripple Patel, Sattor Jabbor, Ying Zhu
Consultants
Structural Engineers: Buro Happold
Environmental Consultant: Buro Happold
MEP: Burro Happold
Masterplan Consultancy: Buro Happold
