Each building is an architectural masterpiece that surrounds us with the spaces it creates, forming the streets and cities we inhabit. Some of these works have survived from the past, while others have been renovated to meet the demands of the present. Historical buildings with classical traces are unique and important because of their history. On the other hand, modern buildings have unique features that reflect their daring and innovative designs.
Although we might not always notice it, classical and modern structures can sometimes intertwine, creating a unity that transcends time. In this document, we take a closer look at 8 eye-catching projects, ranging from Frank Gehry's Dancing House to Zaha Hadid's project resembling a spaceship in the Belgian port.
Famous architect Frank Gehry, known for his preference for curved and amorphous surfaces in his designs, and Czech architect Vlado Milunić collaborated on the Dancing House project. The building was commissioned by the investment bank Nationale-Nederlanden, and was dedicated to Hollywood's famous dance couple Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, originally named Fred and Ginger. Over time, the building became known as the Dancing House.
When it was originally built, Czech people criticized the building about not being suitable for Prague's historical texture. However, the building has become a landmark and contributes to Prague's economy today.
Toronto, Canada, Royal Ontario Museum ©Steven Evans
2- Royal Ontario Museum (Toronto, Canada)
The museum is located in Toronto, Canada and houses exhibits showcasing art, world culture, and natural history. The building's architect, Daniel Libeskind, is renowned for his radical designs and applications. It was first constructed in 1914 in the Neo-Romanesque style, and later restored in the Art Deco style. In 2006, Daniel Libeskind added a modern extension to the museum.
The image is taken from achdaily.com / Santpedor, Spain, Church of Sant Francesc ©Jordi Surroca
3- Sant Francesc Church (Santpedor, Spain)
The church was constructed by 18th-century Franciscan priests. However, it was abandoned during the 19th century and, as a result of neglect, was in a bad state until the 2000s. It was restructured in a completely different shape through a renovation project by architect David Closes, which transformed its appearance. Today, the church exudes a breathtaking atmosphere.
The image is taken from arquitecturaviva.com / Elciego, Spain, Hotel Marqués de Riscal
The building is located in the Basque Country of Spain. Originally built in 1858, the hotel was designed by Frank Gehry, who is also the architect of the famous Guggenheim Bilbao Museum. Since the project is an extension, it has an integrated design with the historical building, which Frank Gehry has surrounded with his signature style.
The image s taken from mvrdv.nl / Amsterdam, Netherlands, Crystal House
The image is taken from berlin.de / Berlin, Germany, Berlin Jewish Museum ©Günter Schneider
6- Jewish Museum Berlin (Berlin, Germany)
The museum consists of two buildings, which in turn are composed of three separate structures, and was designed by architect Daniel Libeskind. The historical building was built in 1933, and the museum is currently the largest Jewish Museum in Europe.
Libeskind incorporated narrow, sharp turns in his design, intended to reflect the challenges Jews faced during World War II. When viewed from above, the structure creates a zigzag pattern.
Hamburg, Germany, Elbphilharmonie Hamburg
Located on the Elbe River, this building was opened in 2017 and functions as a concert hall. It was designed by Herzog & de Meuron and built on top of a warehouse constructed in 1963.
Antwerp, Belgium, Havenhuis
8- Havenhuis (Antwerp, Belgium)
The building, which creates the impression of a spaceship, was designed by Zaha Hadid, perhaps the most famous female architect in the world, known for her great creativity. Originally a fire station, the building underwent renovation and expansion to become a central headquarters. It stands on two big legs, above a historical building, giving the impression of hanging in the air.
As ASPEN, we continue production without slowing down by preserving our values of original design, quality, and product diversity. We add an aesthetic dimension to the design of buildings with our suspended ceiling (wood/metal), partition wall, raised floor, and LED lighting products. This week, we listed buildings where classical and modern architecture coexists. You can visit www.aspen.com.tr/en to access our other design-oriented articles and to review our reference projects.
