Architecture is the basis for modern human existence – providing shelter, places to work, gateways for travel and entertainment arenas. Here we shed light on some of the less ordinary structures cropping up across the world that, from cultural destinations to port authorities, are the pillars of our societies.The Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, has been transformed with a striking addition to its building stock; the elegant glass design for the Anabeth and John Weil Hall.
Boston-based architects CambridgeSeven have just completed Kuwait’s new Ministry of Education headquarters in the country’s district of South Surra. The building, a modern glass and metal composition, now houses eight ministry departments and some 3,600 employees, who relocated from different sites across the country.
The structure’s curved shape is inspired by the rich maritime history of Kuwait, and the architects referenced its shipbuilding industry by designing an office building that abstractly resembles the prow of a ship. A large central courtyard sits at the heart of the ministry, while elsewhere the building features a 600-seat multi-purpose auditorium, a two-level cafeteria, and three levels of parking.
Copenhagen-based Svendborg Architects worked together with landscape architects BOGL and engineering firms Regnestuen and Spangenberg & Madsen on the redesign of one of Roskilde’s main squares – part of which includes a new cultural concept, The House Of The Arts. Providing space for the community to practice art, as well as bringing together artists and the public, the new, red aluminium sheet clad building is the Danish town’s newest home for painting, sculpture, music and performing arts.