These reflective architectures epitomise creativity by turning a simple structure into a beautiful piece of art. Incorporating eye-catching exterior elements like shiny and mirrored surfaces, here are five architectural gems that not only reflect light but skilfully blend in with their immediate surroundings.
1. Maraya Concert Hall, Al Atheeb, Saudi Arabia
Maraya Concert Hall in Saudi Arabia surpasses Elphi in Germany as the world's largest concert arena. A mirage in the city's desert area, the reflecting edifice is a striking architectural feat that houses an immersive theatre and an interactive exhibition.
2. Steirereck, Wien, Austria
Done by the Viennese studio PAG Architecture, Steirereck resembles more of an art piece than a restaurant. Having achieved two Michelin stars, the restaurant menu is as modern as its architecture, with seasonal delicacies such as apricot with soya, pineapple sage, and fermented honey in the shape of a rose. The structure takes on an even more spectacular appearance with the historic Stadtpark pavilion as its backdrop.
3. LUMA Arles, Arles, France
When it comes to architecture, there is only one Frank Gehry, the Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning architect. His 2013 piece, the arts centre LUMA Arles in France is made of stainless steel. Evoking Van Gogh’s Starry Night, the glittering tower reflective of a panorama of light is especially dazzling at nighttime.
4. Notariaat 2.0, Horebeke, Belgium
Architects Dries Vens and Maarten Vanbelle’s resume span over 100 projects around the world – the reflective Notariaat 2.0 being one of them. As its name implies, it's the second version of a building the architects made a few years ago. Instead of duplicating the structure of its predecessor, they crafted it like an abstract mirror box.
5. One World Trade, New York City, USA
One World Trade Center is one of the most well-known trademarks of the United States. The Freedom Tower, as it’s otherwise known as, was built in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist assault in which almost 3,000 Americans were killed. It is the highest skyscraper in the country and the Western Hemisphere.
