Catching the Olympic wave

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Zaha Hadid, the $400-million Aquatics Centre promises to be one of the most eye-catching venues of the London Olympic Games. Located in Olympic Park, the wave-like venue will be home to the swimming, diving and synchronized swimming competitions.

Inside the Aquatics Centre

Exterior features of the Aquatics Centre

Inside the Aquatics Centre

The sweeping roof curves in two directions, but the 37,000 hardwood boards in the ceiling run in straight lines to aid backstroke swimmers. Spectators in opposite grandstands will be able to see the action but not each other.