Feb 21, 2023 | Architecture
From centuries ago to the present day, architects have constantly expressed themselves through their designs of landmark buildings around the world. From religious buildings to vast structures built for recreational use, each design has been thoroughly conceptualised, resulting in masterpieces of architectural design.
This article will explore some of the best-designed buildings in the world, masterminded by its top architects.
Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Standing at 828.9 metres high, the Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building and also acts as a renowned landmark and definitive tourist hotspot within Dubai. Designed by Adrian Smith of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill LLP., the skyscraper has a Y-shaped base and contains an Armani hotel, luxury restaurants and an observation deck. Its sleek glass architecture gives the building a feeling of sophistication and elegance, despite its vast size.
Taj Mahal, India
Built in the 17th century, the Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most visited landmarks. Perhaps the building’s most-loved feature is its central dome, which is 73 metres high. The monument was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who dedicated the structure to the memory of his wife. Made from white Makrana marble, this is a work of architecture that is admired globally due to its unique qualities.
The Best Architects in the World and the Buildings That Defined Them
Sydney Opera House, Australia
Jorn Utzon’s design of the Sydney Opera House is one of the most distinctive landmarks in the world. Having won a competition to design the opera house, Utzon adopted the conventions of modernist architecture through concrete shells positioned in a spherical shape. It is believed that the shells were inspired by an orange being peeled.
Impact of these Architectural Contributions
The impact of the buildings listed above – along with many other significant architectural designs around the world – is profound, influencing architects and impacting the way they view their own work. For instance, freelance architect Kulvir Singh Virk is largely influenced by the numerous buildings he has encountered during his extensive travels, and this influence has been translated into his own work.
Feb 17, 2023 | Architecture
Beyond the luxurious sunbeds dotted around the infinity pools of Mexico’s hotel resorts lies an authentic Mexican experience guaranteed to immerse visitors in the nation’s culture, promising astounding landscapes and architecture.
Top Architectural Sites to Visit in the Yucatán Peninsula
Located in southeast Mexico, the Yucatán Peninsula spreads across three states and boasts breathtaking stretches of coastline, as well as offering a vast array of stunning architectural masterpieces that encapsulate the beauty of Mexico’s buildings – complimented by clear-water beaches and surrounding jungle areas.
The peninsula was historically inhabited by the Maya, who were responsible for a rich selection of architectural wonders – many of which can still be seen today. Visitors can still enjoy these archaeological sites and immerse themselves within the historical context of the peninsula during their travels. One of the most popular sites is the Cathedral de Merida in the centre of the city of Yucatán, constructed on Maya ruins in the 16th century. The cathedral was built following instructions from King Phillip II of Spain to honour the archbishop of Toledo.
Boasting arches and a Renaissance-style interior, the cathedral is a key attraction for anyone visiting the Yucatán Peninsula. The historic building – along with many of the peninsula’s other spectacles – has proved to be a fantastic visitor experience, leaving architects, as well as tourists, in awe. This area is particularly favoured by freelance architect Kulvir Singh Virk, who has drawn great inspiration from all that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer during his 25-year career – not only due to his architectural expertise but also due to his fascination with historical buildings and sites.
Another astounding architectural site is El Castillo, located in Chichen Itza in the state of Yucatán: a pyramid consisting of 91 steps topped with a square terrace. Next to this pyramid is El Caracol, an observatory building that was erected around 906 AD.
The remarkable buildings found throughout the peninsula are accompanied by a large selection of cultural and recreational activities, such as museums and live music, promising an unforgettable experience for any visitor. This area is the perfect mix of cultural discovery and natural beauty, promising both a luxury beach holiday and an insightful experience that will take inquisitive tourists far beyond sunbathing and swimming pools.
