Foster & Partners helps fight the Kazakhstan weather

Foster + Partners has unvelied the design for a vast tent-like building in Kazakhstan called the Khan Shatyry.

The entertainment centre will be the highest peak in the country's capital Astana. It will rise 200m from an elliptical base and occupy a total of 100,000m². It is to shelter a park, shopping centre and leisure centre from the extreme Kazakh weather, which veers from extreme cold to blistering heat.

The cable net structure is clad in ETFE, a material that allows light to wash the interior spaces while sheltering them from extreme weather conditions. A park steps up the height of the building in undulating terraces providing public space and green oases for the visitors. A tropical water park weaves its way through the landscape and its wave pools, river and waterfall are lit by roof lights that are seamlessly integrated into the design. The highest terrace is a viewing deck, which will offer dramatic views over the park.

At the core of the building is a large flexible space that will form the cultural hub of the centre, accommodating a varied programme of events and exhibitions. Complemented by 40,000sqm of retail space with a wide range of cafes, restaurants and cinemas, as well as ample covered car park facilities, the Khan Shatyry will offer leisure facilities for all.