zaha hadid: elk grove civic centre design study

‘elk grove civic centre design study’ by zaha hadid architects in elk grove, california, usa image © zaha hadid architects

internationally-practicing architect zaha hadid has completed a design proposal for ‘the civic centre of the city of elk grove’, in california, USA, a fast-growing suburb of sacramento. the result of an international competition held in 2006, the project consists of two hubs – ‘urban’ and ‘sports’ – that are connected with a development housing all the civic elements of the program. the concept also includes a public plaza that serves as a focal point for the civic centre, providing an open space for interaction and exchange.

rendered view image © zaha hadid architects

located on a 76,000 m2 site, the design proposes to identify the three main components of the centre while maintaining maximum flexibility for future development. the civic programs include a library, children’s discovery centre, community and performance centres.; a hotel, retail and conference center make up the commercial aspect while the recreational component includes a gym, tournament fields, park and a wetland. by clustering the majority of the built urban program on the northern parcel of the site and the sports and recreational functions on the south, the commercial elements in between has the flexibility to be developed separately. this arrangement also facilitates a more economic sharing of services, maintenance and running costs.

aerial view image © zaha hadid architects

after a series of public meetings and consultations, the design and construction of the center is envisioned for a later phase under a separate bidding and competition process.