foster + partners: the hydro set to open in 2013

‘the hydro’ by foster + partners, glasgow, scottlandimage © foster + partners

having just celebrated the ‘topping out’ ceremony upon the tightening of the last screw in the roof structure, the ‘hydro’ entertainment venue in glasgow will become the newest addition to the scottish exhibition and conference center. its ovular shape is modeled after the ancient roman and greek amphitheaters to provide optimal views from any seat.  the iconic facade is made up of pneumatic translucent cushions, originally developed for use by NASA, to allow the interior to be illuminated during the day but give off a very distinct glow at night. designed by british practice foster + partners, the 12,000-seat cultural event hall is scheduled to open in the fall of 2013 and is projected to become the fifth largest venue in the world, injecting upwards of 131 million pounds into the economy from the one-million estimated annual visitors.

view from the waterfrontimage © the hydro

approachimage © the hydro

lobby leading to seating areasimage © the hydro

peripheral circulationimage © the hydro

venue interiorimage © foster + partners

site sectionimage © foster + partners

sectionimage © foster + partners

section perspectiveimage © foster + partners