MOST SURREAL Buildings on Earth
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00:00Hey everybody, today I'm counting down the top 15 most surreal buildings from around
00:04the globe, where the lines between reality and imagination blur.
00:08Let's start with number 15, the Cube Houses, Rotterdam.
00:12The Cube Houses in the Netherlands are a fascinating architectural marvel that grabs the attentions
00:17of visitors.
00:19Designed by Piet Blom in the late 1970s, these eye-catching residential buildings are an
00:23example of innovative design.
00:25These Cube Houses, or kubzingveningen in Dutch, are a cluster of 39 cube-shaped houses that
00:30appear to defy gravity.
00:33The tilted position of the cubes, resting on a hexagonal base, creates a visually striking
00:38sight.
00:39The house's distinctive design is not just aesthetically pleasing, it does aim to optimize
00:43living space.
00:44The interior layouts follow the shape of the cubes, creating this unconventional and dynamic
00:49living space.
00:50To maximize natural light and create a sense of openness, large windows are strategically
00:54placed on each cube.
00:56These windows not only provide ample daylight, but they also offer views of the surrounding
01:00area.
01:01These houses have become an iconic symbol of Rotterdam's modern architecture, and are
01:05considered one of the city's top tourist attractions.
01:08Today, one of the Cube Houses is open to the public as a museum, called the Kijkkoebus.
01:13Visitors can explore the interior and experience firsthand the challenges and advantages of
01:17living in such an unconventional space.
01:20These Cube Houses stand as an example of the innovative and daring spirit of Rotterdam's
01:24architectural scene.
01:26They've got bold design, they demonstrate that even in a densely populated urban environment,
01:31creativity concepts can thrive.
01:33These cube-shaped residences have transformed into a representation of Rotterdam's progressive
01:38and vibrant character.
01:4114.
01:42La Pedrera, Barcelona, Spain La Pedrera, also known as Casa Milo, is a
01:48masterpiece located in the vibrant city of Barcelona.
01:51Designed by the renowned architect Antonio Gaudi, this building is an example of his
01:56innovative style.
01:58Completed in 1912, La Pedrera is considered one of Gaudi's most iconic works.
02:02It stands as an example of the organic and unconventional architecture that defines Gaudi's
02:08aesthetic.
02:09The building's undulating stone façade, resembling waves, showcases a harmonious blend of natural
02:14forms and intricate details, and the façade is adorned with wrought-iron balconies, whimsical
02:19sculptures, and intricate patterns, all of which contribute to the building's distinctive
02:23appearance.
02:24The building has several floors, each designed with a specific purpose.
02:27The attic, for example, showcases a series of catenary arches that create a surreal atmosphere.
02:33The rooftop terrace, with its chimneys resembling medieval knights, offers a breathtaking view
02:38of Barcelona, and the building incorporates natural ventilation systems, interior courtyards
02:43that provide natural light and other eco-friendly features, way ahead of their time.
02:47Today, though, La Pedrera serves as a cultural center and a museum that offers visitors a
02:52unique opportunity to explore Gaudi's genius.
02:56The museum's got exhibitions dedicated to his work, allowing visitors to delve into
02:59his process and gain a deeper understanding.
03:02And as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it represents an extraordinary fusion of art, nature, and
03:08innovation, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination for those people going into Barcelona.
03:1313.
03:15The Little Crooked House, Sopot, Poland The Crooked House, located by the enchanting
03:21seaside town of Sopot in Poland, is a whimsical architectural gem that seems to defy the laws
03:27of gravity.
03:29This extraordinary structure is an example of imagination and creativity.
03:33It was completed in 2004.
03:35The Crooked House, also known as Krzyżowy Domek in Polish, stands out among traditional
03:40buildings that surround it.
03:42Its exterior is a composition of twisted lines and curvatures and unconventional shapes
03:47that resemble something out of a fairy tale.
03:50It really does capture your imagination with its leaning walls, wavy roof lines, and seemingly
03:55distorted features.
03:56The vibrant colors, including shades of pink and purple, further enhance that dreamlike
04:00appearance.
04:02The Crooked House is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, and the interior
04:06spaces continue the themes of whimsy and eccentricity.
04:10The design creates a unique atmosphere, transporting visitors into a world of fantasy, and the
04:15Crooked House has become an iconic symbol of Poland and a popular tourist attraction
04:19too.
04:20Visitors flock here to experience its charm and capture memorable photos.
04:25But beyond its visual appeal, the Crooked House has also earned recognition for its
04:29architecture.
04:30It has received several awards, including the World's Best Architecture Award in 2004
04:34from the World Architecture Festival.
04:3712.
04:38House Attack, Vienna Museum-Moderner Kunst pride themselves on
04:43their extensive collection of 20th and 21st century modern art and their status as the
04:48largest art museum in Austria.
04:51This may or may not be why a small family home attempted to bring them down by hurtling
04:55itself onto the roof of the museum, wedging its roof helplessly into the mammoth's frame.
05:01Artist Erwin Wurm is known for his unusual, sometimes humorous, and occasionally puzzling
05:07work.
05:08While his House Attack piece could fall into any or all of those categories, it is at the
05:13very least intriguing.
05:15The sensation of walking underneath a house that's perched in such a position may spark
05:19a natural instinct to move out away from it, but from a distance, it's not hard to smirk
05:25at the implied predicament of the little guy.
05:28This is located in the heart of Vienna in Austria.
05:30House Attack was the first modern art piece you saw when arriving at the museum before
05:34going inside to see an extensive collection.
05:37But as you can see, there's really no deep, hidden meaning when it comes to the name of
05:41this bizarre structure.
05:43Part publicity stunt, part art installation, the concept was designed by Wurm and certainly
05:47made Vienna's museum stand out for any passerby.
05:51According to the artist himself, House Attack was intended to break with architectural thinking
05:55from the normal limits, and let's be honest, it did achieve that.
06:00Sadly though, the installation no longer exists, but I do feel confident that every single
06:04person who ever walked past it felt the need to stop, scratch their heads, and then take
06:08a selfie, so there's no doubt plenty of photographic proof it existed.
06:1311.
06:14The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, Spain The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao in Spain is
06:20an architectural masterpiece that's become an iconic symbol of contemporary art and design.
06:26Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, this stunning museum has redefined the city's
06:30skyline and it's become a cultural landmark.
06:33It was completed in 1997, it does stand as an example of Gehry's bold and innovative
06:38architectural vision.
06:39Its unconventional design serves as a visually striking attraction, but it also provides
06:44an ideal space for displaying art.
06:46The vast galleries offer an ideal backdrop for showcasing a diverse range of contemporary
06:51artwork from sculptures to paintings and installations, and the museum not only houses a remarkable
06:56art collection, but also serves as a catalyst for urban regeneration.
07:00The museum's impact extends beyond its walls, it's played pivotal roles in shaping Bilbao's
07:05identity and contributing to its economic development.
07:09The museum's location adds to its allure too, with its reflection on the water creating
07:13a captivating visual effect.
07:15The outdoor spaces surrounding the museum, such as the iconic Puppy Sculpture by Jeff
07:19Kuhns and the monumental Spider Sculpture by Louise Bourgeois, further enhance the overall
07:24experience and provide opportunities for contemplation and interaction.
07:28The museum continues to attract art enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and curious travelers
07:34who are drawn to its striking aesthetics and vibrant culture.
07:3810.
07:39Kansas City Public Library The Kansas City Public Library is not just
07:44a place for books, but also a stunning gem that captures your imagination.
07:50Located in the heart of downtown, this library is housed in a historic building known as
07:53the Central Library, which underwent a transformative renovation in 2004.
07:58The south facade of the building features a visually striking installation called the
08:02Community Bookshelf.
08:04This installation consists of a series of giant book spines, each measuring about 25
08:08feet in height, displaying the titles of 22 classic literary works.
08:13The design of the library blends the old with the new.
08:16The Central Library building, originally constructed in 1906, showcases the classical elegance
08:22architecture, with a grand staircase and ornate details.
08:25The modern addition, including the bookshelf installation, creates a striking contrast.
08:30The spacious and light-filled atrium provides a central gathering place, while the diverse
08:34collection of books, multimedia sources, and digital tech caters to the needs of a modern
08:38library-goer.
08:40Visitors here are drawn to the library's exterior, where they can explore the unique bookshelf
08:44installation and capture memorable photos.
08:47The library's commitment to promoting literacy, education, and community engagement has garnered
08:52widespread recognition, and it's cemented its place as a cultural institution.
08:579.
08:59HABITAT 67 – MONTREAL Have you ever wanted to live inside of a
09:03game of Tetris?
09:04Well, if you live in Montreal, Canada, then you might be able to make your dream a reality.
09:09Habitat 67, or simply Habitat, is on the St. Lawrence River in Montreal, Quebec, Canada,
09:15designed by Israeli-Canadian-American architect Moshe Safdie.
09:19Safdie's design for Habitat 67 began as a thesis project for his architecture program
09:23at McGill University.
09:25It's composed of 354 identical, prefabricated concrete forms arranged in various combinations,
09:32divided into three pyramids, reaching up to 12 residential stories.
09:36The complex originally contained 158 apartments, reduced from the original vision of 1,200,
09:42but several apartments have since been joined to create larger units.
09:45The apartments each had a molded plastic bathroom and a modular kitchen, and the development
09:49was designed to integrate the benefits of suburban homes – namely, gardens, fresh
09:54air, and privacy – with the economics and density of a modern urban apartment building.
09:59Safdie's goal for the project to be affordable housing largely failed.
10:03Demand for the building units has made them more expensive than originally envisioned.
10:06In addition, the structure was originally meant to be the first phase of a much larger
10:11but the high per-unit cost of approximately $140,000 prevented that.
10:16Housing was also one of the main themes of the Expo 67, and the Habitat became the thematic
10:20pavilion visited by thousands of people.
10:23In March of 2012, Habitat 67 won an online LEGO architecture poll, and it's a candidate
10:28to be added to the list of famous buildings that inspire a special replica LEGO set.
10:33LEGO bricks were actually used in the initial planning for the Habitat.
10:36According to Safdie's firm, initial models of the project were built using LEGO bricks,
10:41and subsequent iterations were also built with them.
10:458.
10:46La Moralla Roja, Spain Designed in 1970 and translated as The Red
10:51Wall, La Moralla Roja is instantly recognizable for its bold hues of red, pink, and blue – a
10:58design which draws inspiration from the traditional Mediterranean architecture, particularly the
11:02casbas of northern Africa.
11:05The complex is characterized by its layout, featuring interconnected stairways, walkways,
11:09and terraces that form a maze-like structure.
11:12The angular walls, arches, and irregular shapes contribute to the unique atmosphere here,
11:17evoking a sense of exploration and discovery for those that wander its corridors.
11:22The residential units here are designed to embrace the vibrant spirit of the building
11:26with colorful walls and intricately patterned tiles.
11:29The courtyard areas are adorned with striking patterns, creating a harmonious interplay
11:33of light, and beyond its aesthetic appeal, it offers a sense of community and privacy
11:38for its residents.
11:40It has become a cultural and architectural landmark, attracting visitors from around
11:44the world who appreciate the unique beauty and artistic vision, and the complex has been
11:48featured in numerous films, fashion shoots, and artistic projects, further cementing its
11:53status as an iconic symbol of postmodern architecture.
11:577.
11:59The Absolute World Towers in Mississauga, Canada
12:03Designed by architectural firm MAD Architects, these towers, often referred to as the Marilyn
12:08Monroe Towers due to their curvaceous forms, are an example of contemporary design.
12:14Completed in 2012, the Absolute World Towers exterior features a dynamic and sculptural
12:19design, with each floor rotating gradually as the building rises.
12:23The curved balconies wrapped around the towers give the buildings a distinct appearance,
12:27and the tower's unique design was inspired by the concept of fluidity and the desire
12:31to break away from the traditional rectilinear forms commonly seen in high-rise buildings.
12:36Beyond their striking exteriors, though, the towers offer a luxurious and contemporary
12:40living.
12:41The residences inside the towers provide views of the surrounding cityscape and Lake Ontario,
12:46and the interior layouts are designed to maximize space and natural light.
12:50The towers have also won several prestigious architectural awards, including the Emperor
12:54Skyscraper Award for the Best New Skyscraper in the Year 2012.
12:58These towers not only redefine the skyline here, but also contribute to the urban fabric
13:02of Mississauga.
13:04The presence of the Absolute World Towers has brought vibrancy and diversity to the
13:07city's landscape, serving as a catalyst for urban renewal.
13:126.
13:13The CCTV Headquarters in Beijing The CCTV HQ is an architectural marvel that
13:19commands attention with its bold design.
13:23Designed by Rem Koolhaas and Ole Schirin of the architectural firm OMA, this structure
13:28redefines the concept of skyscraper, breaking away from traditional forms.
13:33It was completed in 2012.
13:34The CCTV HQ is an example of the avant-garde vision of its architects.
13:39The building's most striking feature is that unique shape, which resembles a continuous
13:43loop or a leaning L. The two leaning towers are interconnected at the top and bottom.
13:49form a dramatic structure that challenges conventions of vertical architecture.
13:53The headquarters serve a functional purpose, too.
13:56The loop shape creates an open central courtyard known as the Sky Courtyard, which allows for
14:00increased interaction and communication among employees.
14:04The exterior of the CCTV HQ is clad in reflective glass, which adds to its futuristic appearance.
14:10That glass also serves a dual purpose.
14:12It enhances the building's visual impact while providing a sense of transparency.
14:16The interior spaces are equally impressive.
14:19The building houses state-of-the-art broadcasting studios, offices, and production facilities.
14:24The interior spaces are characterized by expansive open areas, innovative layouts, and carefully
14:28curated circulation paths.
14:31It's also received numerous accolades for its design and engineering excellence, solidifying
14:35its place among the world's most notable architectural achievements.
14:39Number 5.
14:40The Turning Torso, Malmö, Sweden.
14:44Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, this residential skyscraper stands as the
14:48tallest building in Scandinavia, captivating viewers with its striking helix form.
14:54Completed in 2005, the Turning Torso is a true feat of engineering.
14:57Its twisted design gives the impression of a twisting torso, inspired by Calatrava's
15:02fascination with the human body in motion.
15:05The building consists of nine stacked cubes that rotate 90 degrees from the base to the
15:10top, creating a visually captivating structure.
15:13The Turning Torso's exterior is clad in stainless steel and reflective glass, lending a sleek
15:17appearance.
15:19Inside houses luxury apartments, offering residents a unique, sophisticated living environment.
15:23They've got a range of amenities in there, including private gyms, conference rooms,
15:27and an exclusive sky lounge.
15:29It's also become an iconic landmark for Malmö, a symbol of the city's progress and ambition.
15:34It's not only garnered international recognition for its design, but has also revitalized the
15:39area, attracting businesses, residents, and tourists.
15:42It incorporates a range of energy-efficient features, too, such as geothermal heating
15:46and cooling systems, solar panels, and rainwater collection, which reduces its environmental
15:51impact and promotes sustainable living.
15:544.
15:55The Longaberger Basket Building in Newark
15:58The Longaberger Basket Building, located in Newark, New Jersey, is truly one of a kind.
16:04Designed by American architect Dave Longaberger, the founder of the company, the building was
16:08inspired by the signature Longaberger medium market basket.
16:12The structure's exterior replicates the details of a woven basket, complete with handles,
16:17a wooden facade, and a checkerboard pattern on the roof.
16:20The interior is just as remarkable.
16:23It houses office spaces and meeting rooms, with a central atrium that stretches up through
16:27the building's seven floors.
16:29The interior space features an abundance of natural light, thanks to the large windows
16:32and skylights.
16:34Visitors from near and far are captivated by this unique design, and often stop to take
16:38photos or explore the homestead nearby, which offers a range of activities and shopping
16:43opportunities.
16:44While the basket building was initially constructed as an example to the company's identity and
16:48commitment to craftsmanship, it also represents the spirit of innovation.
16:53Its unconventional design challenges traditional notions of what a commercial building should
16:57look like, and it serves as a reminder that architecture can be both functional and creative.
17:033.
17:05THE ATOMIUM IN BELGIUM The Atomium is a landmark modernist building
17:10in Brussels in Belgium.
17:11It was originally built as the main pavilion and icon of the 1958 Brussels World Fair,
17:17or Expo 58.
17:18In the 50s, faith in scientific progress was pretty high, and a structure depicting atoms
17:24was chosen to highlight humanity's advance in science, including nuclear physics, which
17:29Belgium itself was an avid practitioner of.
17:31With the Atomium, Belgium wanted to highlight and promote the post-war ideal to peacefully
17:36apply atomic research.
17:38The Atomium's nine 18-meter diameter stainless steel clad spheres depict nine iron atoms
17:44in the shape of an alpha-iron ferrite crystal magnified 165 billion times.
17:50The construction of this thing was a technical feat.
17:52In January 1955, the first project was presented, and the architects André and Jean Pollack
17:58were responsible for the architectural transposition of this concept.
18:02The company received assistance from the consulting engineers and assisted by a design office,
18:06and the foundations were launched in 1956.
18:10The building was completed less than a month before the inauguration of Expo 58 on April
18:1417, 1958.
18:16Since opening, only six of the nine spheres are accessible to the public, and the three
18:20central axis and the three lower outer ones, with each two main floors and a lower floor
18:25reserved for service.
18:26There are tubes of three meters in diameter that connect the spheres along the twelve
18:30edges of the cube and all eight vertices to the center.
18:33The central tube contains the fastest elevator in Europe, installed by the Belgian branch
18:37of the Swiss firm Schlieren.
18:39It allows 22 people to reach the summit in 23 seconds.
18:43There are also escalators in there, installed in the oblique tubes, that are also among
18:46the longest in Europe.
18:49Number 2.
18:50Bosco Verticale, Italy Designed by Stefano Boeri Architects, this
18:55visionary development consists of two residential towers that stand as a living example of sustainability.
19:02Completed in 2014, Bosco Verticale, which translates to Vertical Forest, is a stunning
19:07example of vertical landscaping.
19:09These towers rise high into the skies, their facades adorned with a lush array of trees,
19:14shrubs, and plants.
19:15This verdant foliage not only adds a touch of natural beauty, but also serves as an essential
19:20environmental function, purifying air, noise reduction, and temperature regulation.
19:25The inclusion of over 900 trees and 20,000 plants in the tower's design creates a true
19:29vertical forest.
19:31The presence of greenery throughout the towers creates a peaceful and serene atmosphere,
19:36providing a respite from the bustling city below.
19:39But beyond its ecological benefits, Bosco Verticale has gained international acclaim
19:43for its innovative design.
19:45The project has received numerous awards, including the International High-Rise Award
19:49in 2014.
19:51The project does reflect a growing global awareness of the need to integrate green spaces
19:55into urban environments, and prioritize the well-being of both residents and the planet.
20:02Number 1.
20:03The Dancing House in Prague Well, how could we not put a house that dances
20:07at the top of our list?
20:09The Dancing House in the Czech Republic is a remarkable gem that stands out amid the
20:14city's rich historical landscape.
20:16Founded in 1996, the Dancing House breaks away from traditional norms with its unconventional
20:22appearance.
20:23Its unique form is inspired by the concept of a pair of dancers, where the building's
20:27two main towers represent the bodies of the dancers in motion.
20:31The taller tower, known as Ginger, appears to sway and bend, while the shorter tower,
20:36Fred Astaire, stands more upright, creating a dynamic composition.
20:40The design combines various architectural elements and materials to achieve that look.
20:45The façade is composed of undulating, curving lines and glass panels, which contrast with
20:50the surrounding buildings.
20:51This juxtaposition of old and new adds a sense of intrigue to the structure.
20:56As one ventures inside the Dancing House, they're greeted by a combination of office
21:00spaces, a luxurious hotel, and a rooftop restaurant.
21:03The interior design continues the building's theme of fluidity, with curved walls and open
21:08spaces that enhance the sense of dynamism.
21:11The Dancing House has become an integral part of Prague's cultural fabric.
21:15The building has been recognized for its architectural significance and has received
21:18numerous accolades, solidifying its place as an iconic landmark.
21:23In addition to that aesthetic appeal, the house also serves as an example of the city's
21:26post-communist transformation.
21:28It symbolizes Prague's embrace of modernity while celebrating its rich history, offering
21:33a unique blend of past and present.
21:36Thanks for watching everyone, I'll see you next time.