Innovative Masterplan Weaves Baku Expo City Through Pine Forest
By Editor • August 19, 2026 • 1 min read
In an ambitious endeavor, Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) is set to reshape Baku with the Baku Expo City masterplan, which encompasses 198 hectares and strategically incorporates 18,000 existing trees. Remarkably, 92 percent of these trees will remain, creating a unique urban environment that harmonizes with the natural landscape.
The plan addresses Baku’s growing population by providing a mix of housing options, from cozy one-bedroom apartments to spacious family homes. Essential amenities, including schools and shops, are integrated within walkable neighborhoods, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. A central public square will serve as a cultural hub, complete with cafes and new venues adjacent to the Baku Expo Center and a proposed Congress Hall.
Given Baku’s climatic challenges, characterized by seasonal winds, the design employs buildings as windbreaks to enhance pedestrian comfort year-round. The existing pine forest not only cools the area but also plays a crucial role in the development’s environmental strategy. Each new structure will feature green roofs that aid in insulation and stormwater management, contributing to a sustainable ecosystem.
Furthermore, the masterplan aligns with Baku’s 2030 transport strategy, facilitating connections to the city center and international airport through improved public transit links. ZHA’s vision emphasizes an architectural approach that respects and preserves the existing landscape while accommodating future growth.
Source: www.designboom.com
