The Dancing House is the nickname given to an office building in downtown Prague, Czech Republic. The building was designed by Croatian-born Czech architect, Vlado Milunic in co-operation with Canadian architect Frank Gehry on the banks of the empty plot (where the previous building had been destroyed during the bombing of Prague in 1945). Construction began in 1994 and completed in 1996.
The very non-traditional design was controversial at the time. Czech President Vaclav Havel, who lived for decades next to the building, has been supportive, hoping that the building will be the center of cultural activities. Originally named Fred and Ginger (after Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers - the house vaguely resembles a pair of dancers) the house stands out among the Neo-Baroque, Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings of the famous Prague. On the roof is a French restaurant with panoramic city views. Building tenants include several multinational firms. Because of its location next to a very busy depending on forced air circulation, making the interior somewhat less pleasant for its occupants.
2. The Piano House (China)
This unique piano house was built recently in An Hui Province, China. In the violin is the escalator to the building. The building displays various city plans and development prospects in an effort to draw interest to the newly developed area.
3. Kansas City Library (United States)
Kansas City Library has one seriously cool façade. Local residents were asked to nominate influential books that represent Kansas City, humungous versions of winning the nomination is then used as the exterior library car park.
4. The Robot Building (Thailand)
Robot Building, located in the Sathorn business district of Bangkok, Thailand, houses the headquarters of United Overseas Bank's Bangkok. The building was designed for the Bank of Asia by Sumet Jumsai to reflect the computerization of banking; architecture is a reaction against neoclassical and high-tech postmodern architecture. Fiturb buildings, such as the bottom wall further away, antennas, and eyes, contribute to the appearance of the robot and its practical function. Completed in 1986, the building was one of the last examples of modern architecture in Bangkok and has received international acclaim.
5. The Blue Building (Netherlands)
Borough of Delfshaven, Rotterdam, asked Schildersbedrijf N & F Hijnen to come up with a plan for a block of derelict buildings, which will eventually be destroyed. Environmental agreements is that the block will remain blue as long as there are no new plans for the area.In ancient times it was one of the block houses the most invisible in Rotterdam, and by applying a 2 micron layer of blue paint on it, it became the most photographed buildings.
6. The Astra House (Germany)
This strange building is actually a brewery in Hamburg, Germany. The floors can move up or down. Until now, the unique building has been destroyed. One of the famous beer brands was recently bought by a big refreshment corporation. And that brand of beer called Astra.
7. The Crooked House (Poland)
Polish architect of the Crooked House, Szotynscy Zaleski, inspired by Jan Marcin Szancer fairytale illustrations and drawings Swedish artist and Sopot resident Per Dahlberg. The most photographed building in Poland, the 4,000 square meters is located in the shopping center Rezydent Sopot, Poland.
8. Sam Kee Building, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Sam Kee building is situated at 8 West Pender Street. The building is located off the corner of Pender and Carral to a small road block at the halfway point. The building has two storeys high and 1 .. 5 meters (six feet) deep. This building is home to 13 businesses at one time. It is the only place in Chinatown for residents to enjoy hot baths. There is a tunnel under the building which is used as an escape route from raids on Opium dens situated on neighboring Shanghai Alley. The building is also the only remaining glass sidewalk in Chinatown
