Zaha Hadid's Wangjing Soho complex nears completion in Beijing
These new images by German photographer Robert Herrmann show the near-complete external structures of Zaha Hadid's Wangjing Soho complex, which is scheduled to open later this year in Beijing (+ slideshow).
![Wangjing Soho by Zaha Hadid](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2014/08/Wangjing_Soho_by_Zaha_Hadid_dezeen_468_1.jpg)
The retail and office complex, for real-estate developer Soho China, comprises three large pebble-shaped buildings positioned beside the main road leading from Beijing Capital Airport to the city centre.
When the design was unveiled in 2011, Zaha Hadid Architects compared it to a trio of Chinese fans that "appear to move around each other in an intricate dance".
![Wangjing Soho by Zaha Hadid](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2014/08/Wangjing_Soho_by_Zaha_Hadid_dezeen_468_2.jpg)
"This interplay creates a vibrant architectural complex that is enhanced by an equally dynamic external skin, which continuously varies in density creating a shimmering, exciting presence," said the studio.
![Wangjing Soho by Zaha Hadid](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2014/08/Wangjing_Soho_by_Zaha_Hadid_dezeen_468_5.jpg)
The new photographs, taken three weeks ago, show that most buildings in the group appear to be finished, while surrounding landscaping is still in progress.
![Wangjing Soho by Zaha Hadid](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2014/08/Wangjing_Soho_by_Zaha_Hadid_dezeen_468_0.jpg)
Once complete, the structures will accommodate 37 floors of offices, three storeys of shops – one of which will be underground – and two basement parking levels. At its apex, the complex will reach a height of 200 metres.
![Wangjing Soho by Zaha Hadid](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2014/08/Wangjing_Soho_by_Zaha_Hadid_dezeen_468_4.jpg)
Wangjing Soho made the news in early 2013, when it was revealed that a developer in Chongqing had copied the design and was intending to complete its own project sooner. Recent reports indicate this building is also still yet to complete.
![Wangjing Soho by Zaha Hadid](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2014/08/Wangjing_Soho_by_Zaha_Hadid_dezeen_468_3.jpg)
Photography is by Robert Herrmann.