Way back in 2003, Studio Nicoletti won a competition to construct Kazakhstan State Auditorium in the capital city of Astana. Now nearing completion, the State Auditorium is building into an imposing structure, as bit unique as it is colossal. Located in the city on the steppes, the auditorium’s structure is shaped like petals of a flower. The structure encloses an internal piazza that is home to numerous shops, restaurants, exhibition halls and two cinemas. The auditorium itself has 3,500 seats, composed of wood in and out. Astana is a city that is built on the system of piazzas and the auditorium’s structure is in harmony with the city’s system of public squares. Even the internal arrangements of the auditorium complement its facade. The wood-paneled ceiling has a space beneath that regulates acoustic absorption. The exterior is adorned with glass panels that serve the dual purpose of reflecting the environment and simultaneously providing protection against steppe’s salty winds. Wait till it is completed, the cold desert will surely witness some flocking tourists then! Till then suffice yourself with the images in the gallery below.

Via: e-architect