London Aquatics Centre 2012 by Zaha Hadid
The 17,500-seat centre is the final permanent venue to be completed at the Olympic Park, one year ahead of the games. The aquatics centre features an undulating wave-like roof that critics originally speculated would be too complex to build on time. The competition and diving pools are sheltered below this steel roof, enclosed within the main hall. Above photograph is by Anthony Charlton / Getty A third pool to be used for training is located beneath the Stratford City Bridge, which is also sheltered by the curving canopy. Above photograph is by Anthony Charlton / Getty Wings on each side of the building provide additional seating but will be removed once the games are over. Above photograph is by Anthony Charlton / Getty
Photography is by David Poultney/Getty, apart from where otherwise stated.
