Architecture is a constantly changing art. As every building is created, it reflects the climate and culture of its time, with the most iconic buildings becoming classic symbols of entire cities or countries.
Most of these famous landmarks were built well in the past. But what if they had been designed today?
In this post by Green Building Elements, we explore 5 concepts examining that idea.
The Eiffel Tower – Paris, France
The first of these concepts is the Eiffel Tower. Originally completed in 1889 by Gustave Eiffel, the building met criticism by intellectuals and cultural commentators, but then went on to be the most visited and arguably the most recognisable building in the world. Our modern version encompasses sleek lines ornamented with urban gardens, creating a stunning structure that retains the elegant soul of the original. It is beyond striking – but would Gustave approve?
The Houses of Parliament – London, England
Built in 1016, the Houses of Parliament was later redesigned by Charles Barry after being destroyed by a fire. The subsequent version won an award for buildings designed in the Gothic Revival style. This modern remix reflects the UK’s new climate of austerity, and even the winds of Brexit, with low-cost glass & British steel.
The Space Needle – Seattle, USA
Seattle’s skyline star stands 520 ft tall and is fresh from a $100m renovation. Visitors travel 41 seconds up its glass elevators to an observation deck, where they can take in stunning views of the surrounding city. And that’s just right now. Here’s our reworked version, showing off modern capabilities with asymmetrical spiral lines. With this added heft, the less-spindly tower becomes a more dominant statement upon the city’s landscape.
The White House – Washington, USA
The official residence of the America’s president, this complex comprises the Executive Residence, East Wing, and West Wing. It caters to 30,000 visitors per week, has 5 full-time chefs, and even a tennis court. That spirit of excess is gone in our modern brutal version, where security takes the front seat to create a memorable yet functional icon in a post 9/11 world.
The Taj Mahal – Agra, India
Also known as the ‘Place or Position of the Crown’, this grand structure is an ivory white mausoleum. It was built in the traditional Persian and Mughal styles to house the deceased wife of emperor Shah Jahan. The symbol of this timeless love story has been updated with beautiful ivory spiral towers. Additionally, new gold and glass sun traps capture the surrounding light, making the burial site a shining representation of romance.
