Famous Buildings: Icons of a City
Famous architectural buildings are known to be some of the most popular poster images ever printed. Print shops, museums, and bookstores have continuously printed them in standard poster sizes as well as a custom poster size now and then. These famous architectural structures have served as the city's witnesses to the history and culture that have shaped the lives of its citizens. Architectural buildings built near or during the 21st century having become the new iconic images of cities. These buildings continue to advance in stature and technology. Below are some of the most iconic buildings and the cities which have become equal icons on their own.
' Burg Al Arab- a new icon of 21st century building technology and aesthetics, the Burj Al Arab in Dubai stands at a soaring 321 meters with a 182 meter atrium, said to be the tallest atrium in the world. It is also known to be the tallest single structure premier luxury hotel at 56 storeys high. Planned and designed by Atkins Global, its design is famously likened to the 'billowing spinnaker sail of a hi-tech J-class yacht.' This theme was said to be inspired by the city's maritime trade history with China, India and Africa.
' Tapei 101-Soaring above and standing at the center of Taiwan's newly master-planned, business district of Hsinyi, this 508 meter tall tower's main purpose was to place Taiwan on the map. The building's architecture was designed by world renowned architect C.Y. Lee and is said to be based on the Chinese uni-body concept and the lucky number eight. Distinctive in its approach to skyscraper design, it was designed to have eight-floor structural units interconnected and located on top of each other. Its design was also aid to have been inspired by tall and graceful bamboo poles rising up to the sky, the structural walls are inclined 7 degrees inward, increasing in size as it climbs higher.
' 30 St. Mary Axe-one of the latest additions to the London skyline is designed by honorary English architect Sir Norman Foster. Started at the turn of the millennium, this commercial skyscraper also known as The Gherkin, is said to be located at the former site of the Baltic Exchange. Standing at 180 meters tall, it is said to be the second tallest building in the city of London, and the sixth tallest in London. This pickle-shaped, round skyscraper was designed in the style of high-tech modern and is constructed mainly of reflective glass cladding.
About the Author:
Nikki Sabato is a writer with a background in landscape architecture and design. She currently works in the field of marketing and design communication.