Zaha Hadid Architects Adds Signature Style to German Flood Defenses

Following severe flooding in 1960s Hamburg, Germany, that killed over 300 people, the city upgraded its flood defenses.

However, recent simulations revealed that even higher flood barriers were required to protect against extreme high tides and storm surges. An architecture competition was launched to redevelop the site and high-profile firm Zaha Hadid Architects got the nod.Though it doesn’t boast the eye-catching curves of Zaha Hadid Architects’ more ambitious works, the firm has nonetheless managed to put its stamp onto the Niederhafen River Promenade.

The 625-m (2,050-ft)-long walkway provides public space atop the newly-improved flood defenses and is enlivened by large light gray granite amphitheater-like staircases that are sculpted into the flood barrier, both facing the river and at points where streets from adjacent neighborhoods meet the structure.Additionally, a three-story cantilevering restaurant offers diners choice views of the surrounding area and there are cycle lanes at street level.