Traveling is a pleasure that often takes us back in time. We visit places of historical interest, monuments that marked moments of great importance and that make the world as we know it. But what if we could travel to the future? We can’t (yet) travel back in time, but we can offer you a glimpse of how the most forward-thinking architects see it. Here are some of the most modern buildings in the world that you can visit today.
Vertical boom
At a time when the environment is a major concern, the most modern buildings in the world cannot fail to take it into account. The two large skyscrapers that make up the Bosco Verticale in Milan are a perfect example of the combination of sustainable architecture and respect for nature.
These are two residential buildings in which the apartments coexist with more than 2,000 species of plants. One of the towers measures 80 meters, the other 112 meters and they shelter a multitude of human families, but also 5,000 shrubs, 300 small trees and 480 more or less tall trees. The 1,500 square meters of urban land is equivalent to approximately 20,000 square meters of forest. Without a doubt, an example of sustainable development and respect for the environment.
Chinese Television Headquarters
The Chinese Television Building earned second place in our list of the most modern buildings in the world, not because of its height, but because of its concept. The design of the OMA is a loop that integrates all the functions that the country’s television needs. Previously, the different departments were dispersed in the city of Beijing, whereas today they are united and part of a production process that is reflected in the same building. It is formed by two towers leaning towards each other which meet both at the base and in overhang. Together, they form a loop that refers to the closed circuits of television. The architects have disassociated themselves from the race to construct a building taller than those in their surroundings, focusing on creating a useful and meaningful structure. If you visit Beijing, do not hesitate to go see it.
The City of Wine, in Bordeaux
This building is located in one of the most traditional French towns. If you like wine tourism, you can’t miss it. Among the classical buildings with stone facades and slate roofs, you will find a metal building whose shape is reminiscent of wine flowing when served in a glass. Some say it’s a huge carafe.
If its metallic exterior resembles the famous Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao or the Sydney Opera House, its interior is completely different. Inside you will find 13,000 square meters dedicated to wine, its places of origin, its elaboration and everything related to it.
Do not miss the panoramic restaurant.
Ark Nova
After the tsunami that hit Japan in 2011, architect Arata Isozaki teamed up with artist Anish Kapoor to perform a concert tour in the most affected places.
And why mention an art tour in an article about the most modern buildings in the world? Because this time it’s not just the orchestra that’s moving, but the whole building. Arata Isozaki designed and built an inflatable concert hall that toured in 2011 and has continued to do so ever since. The structure is shaped like a kidney bean and its PVC-coated polyester exterior swells with each new city. It can accommodate up to 700 people.
Heydar Aliyev Center
The winner of the “Design of the Year 2014” award was given to the building located in Azerbaijan, more precisely in its capital, Baku. It is a cultural center whose rounded shapes seem not to touch the ground. Fragile and unstable in appearance, it hosts cultural events and exhibitions. It was built as part of the project to convert the country into a modern city of the 21st century. We advise you to go and see for yourself if the architects have achieved their goal.
Tverrfjellhytta Reindeer Pavilion
We started the article by evoking two skyscrapers that reflect the concern for the environment and we end it with a building totally integrated in nature. Indeed, the Tverrfjellhytta Reindeer Pavilion is located in the Dovrerfjell National Park in Norway. A place dedicated to the observation of reindeer in their natural habitat. Its ninety square meters are open to the public, who can come to the facilities to contemplate the flora and fauna of the place. It is made of steel, glass and wood and its cubic appearance on the outside contrasts with the warm and sinuous interior.
