Certain structures in the world stand out as being exceptionally beautiful; the kinds of buildings that offer inspiration and force imaginations to run wild with possibility and imagination.
These buildings are architectural feats of wonder, designed with different architectural philosophies and technologies, depending on how ancient or recent they are. Each is inspired by different cultures, religions, and emotional reasoning—like the Taj Mahal, designed as a tomb for Mumtaz Mahal, the wife of the emperor Shah Jahan. It is an ancient building, almost 500 years old, and widely considered to be one of the best examples of Mughal architecture.
The Taj Mahal is just one of many buildings that can inspire students studying technical design today. If you’re one of those students, or interested in becoming one, read on to discover some more of these inspiring structures.
1. The Dome of the Rock
The oldest example of Islamic architecture in the world is the Dome of the Rock, which is in Jerusalem, Israel. It was built in the late 7th century and was designed with both Persian and Byzantine inspiration. Several additions to the original structure have been added since then. Students in technical design programs might discover during their studies that buildings can be inspired by a host of religious, artistic, and cultural influences, and the Dome of the Rock is a perfect example this.
The Dome of the Rock takes its inspiration from both Persian and Byzantine design
2. The Colosseum
One of the most famous structures currently standing is Rome’s Colosseum, which has stood in some form for almost 2000 years. It housed gladiatorial combats and up to 50,000 spectators back when it was first constructed. Now it is mostly a tourist attraction; one of the most popular ones in the world, in fact. This is because it is still in relatively good condition and is considered one of the greatest feats of Ancient Roman architecture.
Even today, thousands of visitors still marvel at the design of the Colosseum
3. One World Trade Center
Around the world, many people remember where they were on September 11th, 2001, when the Twin Towers of the World Trade Centre were destroyed. It was a shocking, horrific moment in world history. Following the collapse and the slow removal of the rubble, the city of New York decided to rebuild one tower—One World Trade Center—in the same area that the Twin Towers fell.
The One World Trade Center takes inspiration from New York’s many iconic buildings. Its spire, for example, is reminiscent of the Empire State Building, while its design also evokes the original Twin Tower buildings. Students attending technical design college might know that, since its completion in 2013, it is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
Students in technical design college admire the design of the One World Trade Centre in New York City
4. The Sydney Opera House
In the 20th century, an unknown Danish architect named Jørn Utzon was chosen to design the Sydney Opera House; a venue that is now considered to be one of the greatest architectural feats of the century and that has come to symbolize the city itself. It sits on the Sydney harbor and features prominently in the skyline of the city.
The Sydney Opera House is another building that is sure to inspire students in technical design programs
These four structures show that truly innovative designs can come to fruition; an exciting notion for future technical designers, architects, and engineers. Whether you want to take inspiration from modern architecture like One World Trade Centre or the Sydney Opera House or look to history for influences like the Dome of the Rock and the Colosseum, inspiration can be found all around.
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