A New Architectural Landmark in Nansha
Zaha Hadid Architects has completed the Greater Bay Area Sports Centre in Nansha, introducing one of the most ambitious new sports complexes in China. The development was created in collaboration with Guangdong Architectural Design and Research Institute and is designed to host a wide range of athletic and cultural events. Located along the waterfront, the project includes multiple facilities, such as accommodation for athletes and expansive outdoor training grounds for regional schools. The centre is positioned as a long-term flagship venue that elevates sports infrastructure in one of China’s fast-growing metropolitan regions.
The complex features a 60,000-seat stadium as its focal point. The project was devised to optimize the local subtropical climate by enabling natural ventilation and providing outdoor-ready facilities for track and field events. The architecture draws inspiration from traditional sailing ships from the Song Dynasty. This influence is visible in the sweeping, curved forms that define the buildings and emphasize a fluid maritime character that connects the site to the Pearl River estuary.
Environmental Cooling and Climate-Driven Design
Zaha Hadid Architects integrated passive cooling strategies throughout the venue to respond to the region’s humid summers. Vertical louvres line the facades to provide shade and minimize heat exposure, while sheltered areas were adapted from Lingnan architectural traditions. These elements allow fresh air to circulate and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling. The main stadium roof consists of layered structures that protect spectators from rain and direct sunlight while enabling warm air to rise and escape naturally. This approach reinforces the venue’s climate-responsive design while reducing energy usage during large-scale events.
One of the defining features of the main stadium is an arched opening built into the side of the structure. The form channels cool sea air directly into the seating areas, improving comfort for visitors and athletes. The geometry of the building was deliberately sculpted to invite natural airflow while framing uninterrupted views of the water. This strategy combines environmental considerations with architectural presence, strengthening the building’s visual identity and performance.
A Multi-Purpose Stadium for a Growing Region
The 60,000-seat stadium includes an adjustable seating bowl that can be reconfigured for different events. This flexibility allows the venue to serve football matches, athletic competitions, large cultural gatherings and regional festivals. The surrounding landscape integrates flood-prevention planning and water management features to address changing sea levels and storm conditions. Wetlands were incorporated around the site to absorb excess rainfall and improve overall resilience.
The sports centre is part of a broader wave of large-scale developments reshaping major parts of southern China. The project reflects the rapid modernization of Nansha as an emerging economic zone and cultural destination. It also reinforces a continued investment in high-performance sports and public recreation infrastructure. With its layered roofs, curved structures and wind-cooling openings, the complex combines architectural statement with technical precision.
Zaha Hadid Architects has continued to expand its footprint across China in recent years. The firm recently completed a high-rise tower for an educational charity in Shenzhen and a series of pedestrian bridges and public structures across the Pearl River Delta. These projects, like the Nansha sports complex, rely on fluid geometries, structural detailing and bioclimatic design principles to integrate form and function.
The Greater Bay Area Sports Centre now stands as a major new destination for international sporting events, community programming and cultural shows. Designed for year-round use, the venue is positioned to become a long-term athletic hub for the region. Its waterfront stadium, passive cooling features and connection to coastal landscapes demonstrate continued experimentation in stadium design and environmental integration.
