Z-stream, 2008, reflects Zaha Hadid’s signature concepts of flow and curved lines in interior design. Its metallic color, fluid form and smooth surface contribute to its iconic and futuristic appearance influenced by natural phenomena such as glacial melt, flowing water, and wind. The sculpted form circles around the central staircase before spinning down a long slide, giving the work an overall impression of speed and movement. Strength and durability were important features when designing this project to allow visitors to safely climb and slide on it. The combined practical and aesthetic functions of Z-stream demonstrate Hadid’s ability to blur borders between sculpture and design, a talent that won her the Pritzker Prize for Architecture in 2004.
Hadid’s creations are characterized by a distinct sense of speed and flight, often expressed through horizontal lines and ground-level dynamics. Alongside her architectural work, Hadid also created limited collections of interior designs including the Z-scape furniture (2000), the Z-play domestic sofas (2002), and the Ice Storm domestic landscape (2003) among others. Hadid’s sculptural designs, Z-stream included, bear a resemblance to the captivating ground-hugging figures of Henry Moore. As demonstrated by Z-stream, Hadid sets her creation close to the ground, embracing the landscape surrounding it.
Showcased for the first time at the exhibition Reconstruction #3, Artists Playground at Sudeley Castle, sponsored by Phillips, this sculpture illustrates Hadid’s vision of play and enjoyment in an outdoor setting. The core idea of this exhibition was to craft a spectacular recreational environment for visitors in the garden of the castle. Z-stream demonstrates Hadid's determination to surprise her public and constantly question the codified use of an object. In this context, Z-stream, as sculpture and playground in one, captures visitors’ attention by its form in motion and its slide feature. This sculpture encapsulates the essence of Hadid's design philosophy, combining beauty, movement, curves, and originality.
