There are so many incredible buildings in the world that it’s been a real challenge to pick only 5 that really stand out from the rest. Today’s architecture is not just to be admired, to stand out, make a statement, or to be functional. There is so much more to it! One of the main aims of a modern building is to actually shape the environment they are in. 

Reflecting the characteristics of the local environment, climate, culture, natural materials and technology, today’s architecture is designed to engage, inspire and connect with the community. 

We have compiled a shortlist of our 5 buildings that are real gems and are truly transforming not just the skylines but whole area around them!

1. Metropol Parasol

Metropol Parasol is a wooden structure located at La Encarnación square, in the old quarter of Spanish Seville. 

Designed by the German architect Jürgen Mayer, it was completed in April 2011. The building is popularly known as Las Setas de la Encarnación (Incarnation’s mushrooms).

2. Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre

The building features a distinctive coloured glass facade inspired by the basalt landscape of Iceland. 

Harpa was designed by the Danish firm Henning Larsen Architects in co-operation with Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson. In 2013, the building won the European Union’s Mies van der Rohe award for contemporary architecture.

3. Zaha Hadid’s Heydar Aliyev Centre

The Heydar Aliyev Center is a building complex in Baku, Azerbaijan designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid.  

The structure embodies the architect’s signature curvy, dramatic style and is noted for its flowing, curves and sharp angles. 

4. Absolute World

Absolute World is a residential condominium twin tower skyscraper complex in the ‘five towers’ Absolute City Centre development in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. The structural design was done by Sigmund Soudack & Associates Inc.

Fondly dubbed the Marylyn Monroe towers by local residents, the Absolute Towers parallel the twisting fluidity and natural lines found in life.

5. The Triangeln station in Malmö, Sweden

Triangeln Station is an underground railway station in central Malmö in Sweden. The shape of the station hall is a result of the technology used to create the rock cavern. 

Triangeln station’s entrances and exits have smoothly integrated into the urban environment, as the glass pavilions ‘wow’ the passer-by. The Triangeln station is designed by Sweco Architects AB + KHR Arkitekter.

JDW Architects

With our wide range of expertise, here at JDW, we work to deliver the best possible solutions for our clients. If you need advice, please speak to a member of our team on 016 3324 5020 or email us at info@jdwarchitects.com.