This mixed-use project extends over 221 hectares in the district formerly known as Black City in the city of Baku, an industrial area harking back to the oil business that began in Baku in the late 19th century. Under the terms of the decree issued by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr Ilham Aliyev, to improve the country's ecological credentials, it was decided to rehabilitate the site by replacing yesteryear's industry with a new, modern centre called Baku White City. This ambitious project will include commercial and residential real estate, government departments, parks, and car parks. There will also be new transport networks, including underground train lines and tram lines along the seafront to reduce car use. Atkins was asked to leadmanage this large-scale project, and Foster & Partners, F + A, and Azerbaijan professionals were called in for the architectural work. The major design priorities behind Baku White City are architectural diversity, ecological compatibility, and adapting new developments to the existing urban fabric. With this project, Baku will play a front-line role in global design and urban development.

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