Zaha Hadid

Zaha Hadid (1950-2016) is globally recognised as one of the most important architects of the modern period and is frequently credited with developing an entirely new architectural language, in her quest for what she described as ‘complex, dynamic and fluid spaces.’  She consistently pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible in architecture, in a career encompassing design in all its forms, from urban planning to interiors and product design.

Zaha was born in Baghdad and studied maths in Beirut before moving to London in 1972 to join the Architectural Association (AA), where she later became a teacher. She founded Zaha Hadid Architects in 1979 (now ZHA) and realised projects internationally – including Vitra Fire Station in Weil am Rhein; Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art in Cincinnati; MAXXI in Rome, Riverside Museum of Art in Glasgow; Heydar Aliyev Centre in Baku and the London Aquatics Centre. Hadid was the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize (2004) and later earned the Stirling Prize twice, as well as the Royal Gold Medal and a DBE. Her practice extended far beyond architecture into design, fashion and the visual arts and in 2016–17 Serpentine Gallery presented an exhibition her paintings and drawings.