Architects are always trying to set themselves apart through designs that take their buildings to the next level, whether it’s an icon like the Sydney Opera House or a statement like Burj Khalifa — the Dubai tower that holds the record for being the tallest in the world.
Some architects break the mold completely with quirky, fun and sometimes downright strange buildings. Some even become renowned for their distinct styles. Case in point? Spain’s Antoni Gaudi, who has peppered Barcelona with his unique works, like the quirky Park Guell.
Other quirky buildings are designed to be a symbol, like the 335-foot-tall Atomium in Belgium, a replica of – you guessed it – an atom. Technically, it’s an iron atom, but the quirkiness remains all the same. Built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair and designed by engineer Andre Waterkeyn, the towering chrome structure continues to attract tourists looking to snap pictures of this strange structure.
Whether they were built as a trademark for an architect’s style, as a symbol or just for the sake of being different, one thing’s for sure: These 10 quirky buildings from around the world are fun to look at.
(Main image: calebdzahnd)
