Have you ever seen a building that looks from another planet? If not, you’re in for a treat. There’s a fascinating collection of 50 out-of-this-world alien-like buildings designed by architects that will leave you in awe. From surreal-looking museums to futuristic skyscrapers, these structures push the boundaries of what we consider to be typical architecture. Each building is unique and showcases the creativity and imagination of its designer. These architects were unafraid to think outside the box when creating these architectural wonders.
Whether you’re walking the streets of a city you know like the palm of your hand or somewhere wholly unfamiliar, some buildings might make you stop dead in your tracks. Some architectural gems are so astonishing that they never cease to impress passersby or catch their attention for all right or wrong reasons.
Today’s list of unique architecture includes a little bit of both. While most of the towers presented here are some of the most impressive architectural wonders, some might seem bizarre at best, which makes one appreciate the former even more. Scroll down to see the pictures of the architectural gems below, and enjoy.
Below, you will also find A&D’s interviews with Dak Kopec, an Architectural Psychologist and Professor in the School of Architecture at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, and Danish Kurani, whom Fast Company named one of the World’s Most Innovative Architects in 2021.
01. National Carpet Museum, Baku, Azerbaijan
02. Ribbon Wedding Chapel In Hiroshima, Japan
03. Science And Technology Museum, Wuhan
It’s challenging to determine what makes a tower an example of great architecture, especially since whether or not an individual likes it is highly subjective.
However, some universal features seem to distinguish poor architecture from that of a higher level. According to Dak Kopec, these features display an evolution of design that mirrors the evolution of society. “These features should evoke intrigue and fascination,” he told Architecture & Design in a recent interview.
Expanding on how architecture mirrors society’s evolution, Kopec pointed out that some societies are rooted in tradition but are bringing modernization into the fold. “The Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower, for example, brings in a robust foundation or concrete pillars emblematic of the cultural ties to the past. The three spheres represent the Heaven, Man, and Earth mantra of the Buddhist faith, and the use of red symbolizes luck and fame, combined with the fragility of glass representing movement toward an uncertain future. When this building was finished in 1994, it told the story of its era.”
04. Geisel Library – 1970
05. No Clue What This. Wenzhou, China
Regarding the link between architecture and society, the former doesn’t seem to tend to a specific aspect or principle related to the latter. The expert pointed out that there isn’t one thing more important than another; however, he suggested that nowadays, society seems reasonably invested in history or specific locations or sites.
“In today’s world, where people seem interested in the backstory of places, I think buildings that couple [specific] design intentions with the design thoughtfully and uniquely will be more apt to be embraced by the people,” Kopec told A&D.
06. I Don’t Think Balcony Is The Word For These Pod Things
07. Port Authority, Antwerp, Belgium (2016)
08. Duinhotel Tien Torens In Netherlands Designed By Lokerse Architects (2019)
Bearing people’s preferences in mind when designing the next architectural wonder is essential not only because of the extent to which it is likely to be embraced by the public. It’s also crucial because, depending on its purpose, the building can influence how people feel inside it; it’s safe to assume that no one wants to feel uncomfortable in a place they frequent daily.
“Poor architecture is generally associated with outdated design trends. This can diminish employee pride in one’s organization in a workplace environment. In a healthcare setting, this can evoke questions of credibility, and in resorts, this translates to a lower star rating. New construction must remain current with design trends, or it risks being passed over, forgotten, or labeled as unflattering,” Kopec explained.
09. This Is The New Greek Orthodox Church In Lower Manhattan, Designed By Santiago Calatrava
10. Shoreditch Hotel In London
11. The Halgrims Church Is A Fine Example Of Brutalist Expressionism
“It is important to note that the impact of design and architecture on well-being can vary depending on individual preferences, cultural backgrounds, and specific needs. Good design considers the diverse needs and experiences of the people using the space,” another expert, Danish Kurani, an architect and the creator of the Baaham design philosophy, shared with A&D.
Kurani expanded on how good architectural decisions can affect people’s well-being, pointing out that they influence their physical and mental health, productivity and creativity, and social connections.
Discussing the first one—physical health—the expert suggested that well-designed spaces promote physical health by providing adequate lighting, ventilation, and natural access. “For example, buildings with well-positioned windows and natural light can improve mood and productivity, while spaces with good air circulation can reduce the risk of respiratory issues.
“Additionally, well-designed neighborhoods with walkable streets and access to parks can encourage physical activity and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.”
12. The Central Mosque – Cologne, Germany
13. Luma Arles. Often Called An Architectural Folly. Or A Crushed Soda Can By The Locals. I Like It. Arles, France
14. Kunsthaus (Art House) Graz Art Museum (Aka The “Friendly Alien”), Graz, Austria – 2003. Designed By Colin Fournier And Sir Peter Cook
“Well-designed spaces can positively impact mental health by creating a sense of calm, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation,” Kurani continued. “For example, spaces with natural elements such as plants and greenery can improve mood and reduce anxiety. Additionally, spaces that provide privacy and quiet areas can help individuals recharge and find moments of solitude in a busy world.”
Discussing the third aspect on his list, he suggested that well-designed workspaces can also enhance productivity and creativity. “Spaces that are comfortable, organized, and aesthetically calm can improve focus and concentration, leading to increased productivity.”
According to experts, well-designed spaces can facilitate social connections and improve relationships. “Inviting, comfortable, inclusive spaces can encourage social interaction and community engagement. For example, well-designed public spaces such as parks and plazas can allow people to gather, connect, and build relationships.”
15. “The Wave” Residential Building In Vejle, Denmark
16. The “Toilet Bowl Building” Was Voted Virginia’s Ugliest Building By Business Insider Readers
17. US Embassy In London, UK
Certain factors must be considered to avoid making people uncomfortable with the design. According to Dak Kopec, the main ones are the local culture, geography, and climate conditions.
“The building’s design should build upon, modernize, and reflect the region’s people,” the architectural psychologist told us. “In terms of well-being, an expert on social norms and expectations should also be included. For example, a building with a dramatic cantilever would work well for a hi-tech office. Still, it would not be appropriate for a hospital where people are often scared and feel vulnerable.”
18. It’s A Real House. It Was Featured On Netflix’s World’s Most Extraordinary Homes
19. Meanwhile, In Canada
20. Found Elsewhere On The Interwebs
Kurani seconded the idea that it’s crucial to consider the environment when making particular designs and architectural decisions. “Over the past twenty years, I’ve developed a design philosophy that reflects our reciprocal relationship with our environments: We influence our spaces, and they influence us. This philosophy is called Baaham.
“The word ‘baaham’ comes from my native Urdu, which refers to two things working together in unison. This is how I think of us and our environments.”
21. Grand Shopping Center, Facts Emporia, Malmo, Sweden
22. A Good Friend Of Mine Discovered This In Florida. I Wonder What Would Oscar Niemeyer Say About It?
23. What’s The Inside Like?
Baaham entails several design principles, which Danish Kurani discussed with A&D:
- Look within —put the people who predominantly use a space at the center of its design—their needs, goals, and aspirations—and then design outward.
- Solve real problems – prioritize solutions over style. Think practically about what people need from their space daily, and find form through function.
- Design for change – harness the power of the built environment to nudge people in positive ways. Recognize that needs change over time, so designs should be adaptable.
- Follow nature – like nature, collect feedback on what’s working and what isn’t to refine designs. Make the space work for, not against, our evolutionary and biological needs.
- Build locally – source materials and construction approaches from your building area. Minimize using materials that harm humans and the planet more than reasonably.
- Embrace details – consider the finer details to ensure your design works, not just looks good. The details will also make it more beautiful, and people will use it more.
- Zoom out – judge an object’s usefulness based on how well it supports the surrounding environment and the other principles. Consider unintended consequences.
“For any space we design, we must consider these principles. They ensure that whatever we build serves the needs of users, the surrounding stakeholders, and the wider ecology of plants, animals, and the earth itself. Too often, designs are made to be flashy or bold just to be unique. This isn’t good enough,” the architect added.
24. Louis Vuitton’s Flagship Ginza (Japan) Store
25. As Kids, Whenever We Passed This Building, We’d Laugh And Laugh As If We Were The Only Ones Who Saw It
26. Baby Borg Cube. Decorative, Not Functional
According to Kopec, other aspects to focus on when taking one’s architecture to the next level are making sure that the structure is unique and memorable while being tasteful, cutting-edge in technology, and pushing the limits of what has already been done.
“My favorites are often rooted in concepts as opposed to a shape,” he shared with A&D, revealing that some of his personal favorites when it comes to architectural wonders include the Sydney Opera House, Taipei 101, Heydar Aliyev Centre, and the Jean-Marie-Tjibaou Cultural Center.
If you’re still looking for your favorites, check out this list of examples of architects and designers who outdo themselves. You might find something you love.
27. Mi’costa Hotel Residences, Cesme, Izmir Peninsula Of Turkey (2013) By Uras X Dilekci Architects
28. The De Young Centre For Performing Arts
29. Not In The Western Hemisphere
30. Diamond Building At The University Of Sheffield, United Kingdom
31. The Binoculars Building In Venice Beach
32. What Is This? Soda Experiment Gone Wrong? Architect Parent And Their Toddler Do Project Together?
33. Who Wants Some Chinese Gothic-Style Apartments?
34. This Is An Exercise In How To Make This Much Square Footage Feel Claustrophobic
35. Not Sure What It Is, But I’m Pretty Sure It’s Malignant
36. Less Is A Bore
37. This One May Not Seem Strange, But There Is A Glass Bottomed Pool Suspended 200 Ft Off The Ground
38. Los Angeles
39. Talk About A Building That Fits In With Its Neighbors! Woohoo! But, Who’s Going To Clean Those Windows?
40. Apartment Building In Poland
41. Located In Mississauga, Ontario
42. Orange Julep In Montréal
43. But Can It Blow Up A Planet?
44. Casa De Napoli – Aldo Lori Rossi
45. It’s The Leasing Office Of An Apt Complex
46. I Present To You This Building Built Around 1990, Which Was To Be A Place For Art Exhibitions, Built By A Parisian Art Gallery Owner
47. Gangnam, Seoul
48. Mirador Building, Madrid
49. A Lot Going On Here (None Of It Good)
50. Can Someone Explain What This Is?
New Apartment Building In St Louis, Missouri
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