The 20th century was the century of modern architecture. According to many, it came a little too soon, and the world was not yet prepared for it. That is why, in the 1980s, postmodernism emerged as a counterreaction. Although it spread around the world, it did not last very long.
Even more interesting was the emergence of more isolated trends, such as novelty architecture or a return to classical traditions. Some cities invested a fortune in rewriting their own history and creating a new style based on what they call tradition. Oftentimes, it has little connection to reality, and the results can be quite bizarre. Since I enjoy unusual places, I’m dedicating this section to them.
Skopje, Macedonia’s Bizarre Capital
I remember a book I read while studying architecture that talked about Las Vegas as a bad example of architecture and urban planning. I would have never imagined that a city near my hometown could be a much better example: Skopje. It’s hard to believe that the city was beautifully reconstructed after the devastating earthquake of 1963.
How could they do it so bad this time around? The idea was to revamp the city with an exaltation of Alexander the Great. Called Skopje 2014 it ended as a mixture of false grandeur and bad taste. However, not all is bad. The city has a very nice Old Town and is surrounded by green mountains.
Batumi’s Unique Architecture
What I love the most about Georgian architecture are its multiple layers. Though the whole country boasts outstanding architecture, you will find a plethora of styles, colors, and shapes in its three main cities. Regarding architecture, Batumi is probably the most interesting one.
Since it became a port for oil transport in the early 20th Century, the city invested massively in lavish architecture to showcase its wealth. They did it again a hundred years later. This time, however, with outrageous architecture. You may love it or hate it, but you surely won’t forget Batumi. We love it!
Astana, the Unusual New Capital of Kazakhstan
In 1994, the Kazakh parliament decided to move the capital from Almaty. The idea was to attract population to the sparsely populated center of the country. They chose the city of Akmola, which was soon renamed Astana (meaning ‘capital’ in Kazakh).
The new capital revolves around the monumental Central Axis, where most government and public buildings are located. While Astana’s urban planning has its merits, its architecture remains quite controversial. I appreciate its high-tech buildings, but I’m less fond of its eclectic ones.
Chongqing’s Weird Architecture
Chongqing came into the spotlight a few years ago. Several TikTokers and Instagrammers visited the city, and their videos showcasing its unusual architecture quickly went viral. Since then, tourists have been flocking to this unique metropolis in search of its most photogenic spots.
The city is packed with fascinating buildings. There is a shopping mall inspired by a former slum, a square on top of a building, and a metro station inside a residential tower. Chongqing also hosts fantastic contemporary architecture, double twin towers, several fake old towns, and a cool art district.
Colorful Architecture of Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung was an unexpected surprise. Taiwan’s second-largest city is full of unusual and highly colorful architecture. Buildings from different historical periods coexist peacefully alongside one another, while blending harmoniously with the surrounding natural landscape.
There are colorful temples and churches, elegant imperial-style structures, an incredible metro station, an unusual skyscraper, striking contemporary architecture, and even a super cool art center. Kaohsiung is truly a paradise for architecture lovers!
