The World’s Best Buildings, Designed by the World’s Best Architects
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.