Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has partnered with Gencork to create a unique cork wall panel system that combines all the benefits and natural properties of cork’s remarkable materiality with ZHA’s advanced computational design. Marking Gencork’s 10-year anniversary and a key milestone in an innovative collaboration with ZHA, Thalia will be launched at Maison & Objet (M&O) Paris in January 2025.
Initially developed as one of four bespoke designs by ZHA for their global head office in London, Gencork collaborated with the architectural studio to manufacture and install cork feature walls across the headquarters building. Spanning four storeys, the bespoke wall designs reflect different eras and key projects within ZHA’s architectural legacy.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the cork walls offer functional benefits such as acoustic absorption, thermal comfort, and anti-vibration properties, enhancing the workspace environment. The rich texture of expanded black cork brings a tactile warmth to the interiors. The Thalia relief pattern originates from ZHA’s explorations into generative design. Developed through computational algorithms, the design underwent many iterations and prototypes before the evolution of its three-dimensional sculptural form milled in cork.
Exploring variables such as curve symmetry, smoothness, gradation, and pattern density, the design’s curvatures are tailored to align with Gencork’s craftsmanship and production methods, imparting a distinctive texture that highlights cork’s exceptional properties for interiors.
Each curvature has been resampled and refined to enhance the pattern’s overall fluidity and generate dimensionality within each interior space. Gencork’s expanded cork is locally sourced and manufactured using biomass to generate the energy needed for steam production, which is crucial for creating expanded black cork, resulting in a minimal environmental footprint.
Designed with precision, this unique collaboration represents a thoughtful exploration of advanced design methodologies elevating sustainable materials in architecture. Following its debut at M&O, Thalia will be made available as part of Gencork’s product range, bringing ZHA’s research in digital manufacturing and Gencork’s eco-friendly craftsmanship to a broader audience.
Project Team
Design and Technical Development: Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA)
Principal: Patrik Schumacher
Architectural Design: Chris Lepine, Nannette Jackowski, Theodor Wender
Computational Design and Development: Shajay Bhooshan, Vishu Bhooshan, Henry Louth, Philip Singer, Aditya Bhosle, Cesar Fragachan, Tommaso Casucci, Binru Wang, Federico Borello
Production Support
SOFALCA / GENCORK
Fabrication, Installation and Technical Support
SOFALCA
Paulo Estrada, Miguel Estrada, Ricardo Gonçalves, Mafalda Menezes
Computational Design Support
SPECTROOM (Portugal) Le_Brimet
Fire Treatment
PROTECTFLAM
On site Installation
Weintegr8
