Architecture Insights: BEEAH Headquarters By Zaha Hadid

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by Sophie She

Architecture Insights: BEEAH Headquarters By Zaha Hadid

5 Feb 2024

On March 30th, 2022, the BEEAH Group Headquarters, Sharjah's most magnificent building, held its grand opening ceremony. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), this state-of-the-art structure serves as the management and administrative centre of the group, setting a new standard for future workplaces.

Now, who exactly is the BEEAH Group? The group operates across six key industries that shape our future, including clean energy, environmental consulting, waste management, education, and green mobility. This project exemplifies the values of ZHA, presenting an example of how technology can amplify sustainable impact and provide a model for the development of smart eco-cities.

The distinctive and intriguing design of the headquarters is intended to achieve net-zero emissions, reflecting the sustainability and digitalisation values of both the architects and the group. Powered by solar energy and adhering to LEED Platinum standards, the building, shaped like interconnected “dunes”, responds to the environment by optimising local climatic conditions in Sharjah's Al Sajaa desert.

Mirroring the landscape shaped by prevailing winds, forming dunes and ridges, the design prioritises ample daylight and views in internal spaces while minimising exposure to the harsh desert sun. Key features include a 15-meter high dome enhancing natural ventilation, intelligent meeting rooms, an immersive visitor centre, and an auditorium.

Photo: Fedya Ro

The two primary “dunes” house public and management departments, interconnected with the administrative zone through a central courtyard, creating an oasis essential for the sustainable ventilation strategy.

Sustainability is at the core of this project, with solar power linked to Tesla battery packs meeting the building's energy demands day and night. Other measures include locally procured materials, such as glass fibre-reinforced concrete panels for temperature regulation and on-site water treatment to reduce consumption.

Imagine working in an office with smart-first infrastructure, a virtual concierge, and bright meeting rooms. The building's intelligent management system adjusts lighting and temperature based on occupancy and time of day, catering to remote and hybrid work scenarios.

Photo: Fedya Ro

With all these energy-consuming features, you may wonder how resources can be efficiently managed, considering the climate. The engineers devised a photovoltaic system that produces electricity to meet the building's peak summer energy requirements. Consequently, it generates surplus power in off-peak months, which is then supplied back to the grid. This net-zero energy structure with innovative passive design elements was made possible using technologies like 3D-mapping and modelling to enhance the sustainable design process.

Photo: Fedya Ro

by Sophie She