Modern architecture traces its origins to the late 19th century. However, it was only at the beginning of the 20th century that it truly emerged. It was the first time in history that such a revolutionary movement dominated all aspects of architecture.
Modern architecture rejects decoration, uses modern materials such as glass, steel, and concrete, and follows the principle that form comes after function. Since it lacks specific historical, or geographical elements, it quickly became popular around the world. On the other hand, its critics argue that it is soulless, boring, and lacks identity. We are here to show that they are wrong.
Bauhaus Architecture in Tel Aviv
Regarding architecture, Tel Aviv is an extraordinary city for one reason: it houses the world’s largest number of Bauhaus buildings. After the Bauhaus school closed its doors in 1933, many of its professors and students emigrated to all corners of the world. Some of them ended up in Tel Aviv. The cheap costs and mass-produced materials of Bauhaus were perfect for the city.
During the 30s and 40s, over 4000 Bauhaus inspired buildings came to light all around Tel Aviv. What’s more, in 2003, UNESCO included the area in its World Heritage List under the name The White City of Tel Aviv. Walking about the city discovering buildings is such a pleasure. In fact, one of my favorite spots is a fantastic Bauhaus square.
Helsinki Modern and Contemporary Architecture
Without a doubt, modern and contemporary architecture aficionados must visit Helsinki. Finland’s charming capital is home to some of Europe’s most exquisite architecture from the 20th and 21st centuries. Wonderful architecture is everywhere, including museums, music halls, libraries, churches, office towers, universities, and stadiums.
Even more, the city has an entire neighborhood full of first-class modern and contemporary architecture: Töölönlahti cultural quarter. One of our idols lived and worked in the city for over 40 years: renowned Finish architect Alvar Aalto. Thanks to him, Helsinki shines in the world’s architecture spotlight.
Modern and Contemporary Architecture in Athens
Most people associate Athens with ancient sites such as the Acropolis or the Agora, and rightly so. These are among the greatest attractions the Greek capital has to offer. However, luckily for us architecture lovers, Athens is also home to several outstanding examples of modern and contemporary architecture.
During the five years I spent in Athens, I was able to scratch beneath its surface and explore some of the best it has to offer. The turning point came at the beginning of the 21st Century, when Athens was preparing to host the Olympic Games. This period brought major projects such as the New Acropolis Museum and the new Opera House.
Modern Architecture in Belgrade
I was born and raised in Belgrade, where I also completed my studies in architecture. Unlike most of my European colleagues, I didn’t grow up surrounded by historical landmarks. However, the modern architectural heritage of my hometown leaves no one indifferent. There are many spectacular examples.
The modern movement reached Belgrade in the late 1920s, and the first important works appeared in the 1930s. After World War II, the communist government aimed to build a modern society, and promoting modern architecture became one of its priorities. Today, unfortunately, many of these impressive buildings are under threat of demolition.
Groningen’s Contemporary Architecture
Groningen is a wonderful midsized city in the northern Netherlands. It is an old city with a plethora of historical sights. However, what sets it apart is an unusually high number of impressive contemporary buildings. They come in all shapes and sizes and can be found throughout the city.
Two of the city’s main contemporary landmarks are located in the Old Town: Forum Groningen and the Groninger Museum. Another area worth exploring is the Zernike Campus of the University of Groningen. You can easily get there by bicycle or by public bus.
Brutalist Architecture in Bangkok
Brutalism reached Bangkok in the mid-1960s. During that decade and the one that followed, nearly a dozen unique Brutalist buildings were erected across the city. In recent years, there has been a modest revival of the style, with an extraordinary café as its sole example.
Most of Bangkok’s Brutalist architecture is concentrated on university campuses. Mahidol University, Kasetsart University, Thammasat University, and Chulalongkorn University all host notable examples. There is also a major public institution, an office building, and two private residences. In addition, several buildings make interesting use of concrete, although they are not strictly Brutalist.
