Modern architecture is rubbish. Actually, I don’t think so. New buildings can be some of the world’s most innovative, striking and inspiring creations. Here’s five that have made a lasting impression on me and are worth visiting. I’d love to hear your nominations!
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART
DOHA, QATAR (2008)
This Middle Eastern waterfront building combines clean lines with elements of Islamic design. It’s become a must-see in Doha for oozing architectural cool as well as the treasures it houses. Classy, photogenic and Instagrammable. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO SEE MORE
MUSEUM OF 21ST CENTURY ART
KANAZAWA, JAPAN (2004)
A building comprising of cubes, a great deal of glass and even an open window on the sky. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the space. It’s an unexpected feature of a city best known for its ancient history and genteel architecture. TAP/CLICK IMAGE FOR MORE MODERN JAPAN
HARPA
REYKJAVIK, ICELAND (2011)
This hunk of blue glass positioned next to Reykjavik’s waterfront is a centre for concerts and conferences. It’s a very impressive building to find in such a small capital city and is a photographically mesmerising from all angles. TAP/CLICK IMAGE FOR MORE REYKJAVIK
SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE
ABU DHABI, UAE (2007)
A contemporary place of worship but also a major tourist attraction. Its numerous domes and minarets make it stylistically the most traditional of these five buildings. But it looks shimmering and new while being very photogenic. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO SEE MORE
BROOKS BUILDING
MANCHESTER, UK (2014)
A local building which first took my fancy earlier this year. It’s a faculty building of Manchester Metropolitan University, with a striking exterior which has many perspectives and alters in different conditions. Both the university and Manchester have their fair share of new architecture, which seems to delight and disquiet in equal measure. TAP/CLICK IMAGE FOR MORE NEW MANCHESTER
A beautiful insight. Of the five, I have only visited Harpa, but even that was a mind-blowing piece of architecture that stood out from, but fitted into, the Reykjavik seafront. Thanks for sharing. :)
Thanks Richard! Oh yes I was gawping at Harpa for ages. I didn’t quite have room for Zaha Hadid’s beautiful creations in Baku and, er, Stratford but they’re close to my heart too.
Haha! :)
A broad range of buildings and a wide ranging calendar of capture. I’d like to see your favourite old buildings in UK and reasons why!
Ah the dates are when these 21st century buildings were completed :) As for old structures in the UK, where to start, there are just so many! The gauntlet has been laid down…