Nested deep in a Russian forest lies the Capital Hill Residence. Zaha Hadid’s sole private residential project, the legendary Iraqi-British architectural visionary designed this private residence for Doronin, the “Russian James Bond.”

Zaha Hadid’s only residential design has finally been completed deep in the Barvikha Forest near Moscow.  The $140 million USD private residence is designed for Vladislav Doronin, a man that Hadid – the late Iraqi-British architect – was known to have called the “Russian James Bond.”

According to the project video, the concept was conceived over a decade ago with the first sketch on a napkin. Doronin, the owner and chairman of luxury chain Aman Resorts, said to Hadid; “I want to wake up in the morning and I want to just see blue sky. I don’t want to see any neighbors and I want to feel free.” To which Hadid replied: “You realize you have to be above the trees?”

There are two sections to the house: one nested in the sloping forested landscape, and another component located 22 metre above the ground.

The latter component of the house is a perfect response to Doronin’s request, housing the master suite at a staggering 36 metres above ground. Linked to the rest of the house through a slender column where one can access through a glass lift or concrete stairway, the space is built with clean, glazed walls. The master room extends out to two balconies that offers a sweeping view over the treetops.

The main, forested terrain of the house contains three floors, artfully sheltered by angled glass facades and broad roofs with geometric edges overhanging the clear walls. The ground floor contains the other spaces such as a lounge, living room and kitchen. The entrance, guest and children’s bedrooms, and a library are set across the first floor, along with a myriad of leisure facilities integrated seamlessly into space. Apart from an expansive 65-foot-long swimming pool, massage areas, a hammam, the home even boasts a beautiful Japanese garden and a nightclub.

Following Zaha Hadid’s unfortunate passing in 2016, Hadid’s former business partner Patrik Schumacher took over the reins of the company. Describing the project as a dream commission, Patrik states that the project is “an absolute testament to Zaha’s genius, … , who develops new levels of enjoying life on this planet”.

“This is a masterpiece. It has Zaha’s signature features of organic intricacy, complexity of spatial arrangement, a lot of surprises, and a lot of craftiness and beauty.”

Watch the video below where Doronin explains his vision for his residence project, meeting with Hadid a decade ago, and witness the breathtaking work of art.

IMAGES: OKOGROUP