The architecture of the 21st century is the epitome of human advancement, the quest for innovation, and the capacity to build heretofore unimaginable structures. The new Modern architectural marvels not only transform the skylines of cities but also bring in new advancements regarding energy usage, technology implementation, and design. These projects are more than mere constructions; they are symbols of progress and development. In this article, we shall discuss some of the contemporary Modern architectural designs that are revolutionizing cities today.
The Shard – London, United Kingdom
The Shard is an office, retail, and residential building that is the tallest in the United Kingdom at 310 meters and is one of the most distinguishing features of the contemporary London skyline. The magnificent, eco-friendly, and contemporary building was constructed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano. The use of glass in the structure of the building enables it to mimic the environment and the lighting of the city making it a unique and picturesque piece of architecture.
The Shard is not merely a structure; it is a skyscraper that contains an entire city within it. Housing offices, restaurants, a hotel, residential apartments, and the UK’s highest viewing gallery, show the concept of integrated development. Some of the sustainable approaches used in the design of the building include; Energy conservation and control of solar heat gains through the use of a triple skin façade and The use of Energy efficient systems to reduce the carbon footprint of the building.
The Bosco Verticale – Milan, Italy
Bosco Verticale or the Vertical Forest is a theoretical project which is designed to provide a new approach to the urban lifestyle. The building is a combination of two towers. These residential buildings were designed by Stefano Boeri to incorporate trees in the center of Milan. These towers provide a home to over 900 trees, 5000 shrubs, and 11000 perennial plants hence they can be referred to as vertical gardens.
The vegetation serves multiple purposes: It serves for air purification, provides thermal insulation, and creates a microclimate that is favorable for the occupants of the building. Bosco Verticale is one of the best examples that show how architecture can work in harmony with nature and demonstrate how people can live in bigger cities in the future with minimum impact on the environment.
Marina Bay Sands – Singapore
Marina Bay Sands is elegant and unusual in design and underlines the dynamics of Singapore as a nation. This resort was created by Moshe Safdie and has three linked towers with a park on the roof. One of the most attractive features of the hotel is the rooftop infinity swimming pool that offers a scenic view of Singapore city. The design of Marina Bay Sands is in the form of cards, making it one of the most significant objects in Singapore.
It holds a hotel, a shopping center, a museum, theaters, and also numerous cafes and bars which are located in the complex as well. As the tallest building in the world and having the most advanced features, it serves as an example of modern architecture that draws tourists from all over the globe.
The Harbin Opera House – Harbin, China
The Harbin Opera House is a Modern architectural masterpiece of the modern era located in Harbin, a city in the northeastern part of China. This building has been designed by MAD Architects, a firm founded by the Chinese architect Ma Yansong and the building seems to rise from the ground.
The design of the building is very fluid and organic, looking like a snowdrift, which is in harmony with the climate of the region. The Harbin Opera House features two performance venues: One is a large one for massive spectacles and the other – small for chamber performances. The exterior finish is white aluminum, while the interior features wooden elements that create a stark contrast with the exterior. This Modern architectural marvel is evidence of how a structure can be as much a part of the environment as it is beneficial to the community by serving as the cultural hub of the city.
The Edge – Amsterdam, The Netherlands
The Edge in Amsterdam is considered to be the smartest and greenest building in the world, which proves the efficiency of the implemented strategies. This office building for Deloitte is an example of modern architecture and advanced technologies implemented by PLP Architecture. To make the building energy-neutral, the building incorporates solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient systems.
The major strength of The Edge can be attributed to the fact that it is a technological haven. It has a state-of-the-art building automation system that integrates all facets of the building including the control of lighting and climate, employees’ preferences, and workstation availability. This integration leads to the establishment of a very efficient and comfortable working environment and hence raises the bar for other office buildings around the globe.
Lotte World Tower – Seoul, Korea.
Lotte World Tower in Seoul which currently stands at 555 meters tall is one of the largest buildings in the world. This skyscraper was designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates; it is a prime example of modern engineering and Modern architectural advancements. The architecture is shaped in a very elegant, slim line as a reference to Korean art; it is multifunctional and includes commercial, business, hotel, and living zones.
Among the main attractions of the Lotte World Tower, one is the observation deck which provides a magnificent view of the South Korean capital. The tower also has incorporated the latest features in energy usage and protection of the environment. It is considered one of the icons of South Korea’s economic development and Modern architectural accomplishments.
One Central Park – Sydney, Australia
The One Central Park in Sydney is a good example of how a city can integrate nature within itself. This residential and commercial building was envisioned by French architect Jean Nouvel and is characterized by greenery covering the building’s exterior. These gardens are supplied with recycled water and are designed with the use of native and imported plants to give the feeling of a lively green wall.
The complex also has a cantilevered heliostat which can redirect the light onto the lowest floor of the building as well as the park. One Central Park is a perfect example of how it is possible to construct an environmentally friendly and comfortable building within the megapolis.
Final Thoughts
These architectural wonders of the new age are more than just beautiful buildings; they are manifestations of our dreams, imagination, and vision for a better tomorrow. Every project demonstrates how architecture and technology can work hand in hand to enable buildings that are not only beautiful and efficient but also green. This is because these buildings act as a reference point for other architects and city planners as they design new structures, setting the pace for other developments.
