What The Luxe S4E1: Balancing Form & Function with Melodie Leung, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects

Through her story, Melodie offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world’s most innovative and influential architecture practices, sharing the passion, craft and forward-thinking that define the Zaha Hadid legacy.

Founded by Hadid in 1979, Zaha Hadid Architects is a London-based, internationally celebrated firm known for pushing the boundaries of conventional architecture. Over its 40-year history, the studio has made a lasting mark on the world’s most recognisable skylines, with a unique design language and signature aesthetics inspired by its visionary founder. 

Zaha Hadid’s commitment to innovation and futuristic design, recognized by the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2004, continues to shape the firm’s work today.

Starting as a young architect and now overseeing communications and creative direction, Melodie shares how the firm has evolved from a small 40-person team to over 500 employees, highlighting the challenge of preserving a collaborative culture as the business grows. 

Melodie delves beyond the visual elements to explore Zaha Hadid Architects’ multi-sensory, human-centric design approach, which prioritises functionality, adaptability, and longevity. Melodie highlights how the firm’s architecture navigates innovation with a deep commitment to creating spaces that stand the test of time and lead the charge on sustainability.

We also explore Zaha Hadid Architects’ cutting-edge research and development efforts, including 3D-printed concrete and virtual reality tools that are transforming their design process. And ultimately how, Zaha Hadid Architects will always prioritise an artful balance of form and function.

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