Lead Designer
BArch, MArch
London, UK
Nicolas Tornero
Nicolas’ strengths lie in transitioning and realising early concepts into complex geometry using advanced computational techniques. Before ZHA, Nicolas gained professional experience in architectural practices in Chile, working across both design and on-site phases.
Featured Projects
From a mixed-use masterplan for 70,000 researchers, office staff, residents and visitors, to a 18,000m² campus that sets new benchmarks for the city in energy conservation, energy efficiency and sustainability, discover highlights of Nicolas' notable projects at ZHA,
Nicolas completed his BArch in Architecture and Urban Design from Universidad del Desarrollo in Santiago, Chile, and his March in Architecture and Urbanism (DRL) Desing Research Laboratory from the Architectural Association (AA) in London.
Beyond architecture, Nicolas is interest in graphic arts, swimming, and running. He experiments in analogue and computational artistic practice.
Projects
Explore a selection of projects Nicolas has contributed to since joining ZHA.
_Photo by John Kellerman courtesy Alamy, montage by MIR
Heritage + Regeneration
Residential
ZHA was appointed together with local practice Square Architecte to renovate and extend Le Schuylkill Tower. Construction works have begun with completion planned in May 2027. With 188 apartments from small studios to four-bedroom family units, the existing tower sits on a steep site with a 22m gradient between its north and south boundaries.
Photograph by Luke Hayes
ZHA Gallery, September 2023
Products
Addressing new requirements for contemporary meeting areas, Alis is designed to enhance collaboration and cooperation within a space that integrates flexibility and comfort with advanced information technology.
Photograph by Virgile Simon Bertrand
Mixed Use
Civic
As the cultural, academic and civic centre of China, Beijing has also developed into one of the world’s centres of communication and scientific research.
Render by X-Universe
Transport + Infrastructure
Phase One of the new Bishoftu International Airport (BIA) will serve 60 million passengers a year. Further phases will serve up to 110 million passengers annually with four runways and parking for 270 aircraft.
Courtesy of ZHA, render by MIR
Start-up exhibition and conference centre
Masterplans
A mixed-use masterplan for 70,000 researchers, office staff, residents and visitors, Unicorn Island has been designed to enhance the well-being of its community; its design influenced by principles within the region’s historical natural engineering projects.
Offices
The 218,000m² campus sets new benchmarks for the city in energy conservation, energy efficiency and sustainability.
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