Abstract in the architectural world can be described as: relating to or denoting art or architecture that does not attempt to represent external reality, but rather seeks to achieve its effect using shapes, colours, and textures. Here is Hub Architects choice for top ten abstract residential developments around the world.
1. Casa Batlló
Architect: Antoni Gaudi
Designed and completed in 1906 by the Architect who may be seen as the father of Abstract Architecture with a design that effectively uses unique shapes, colours and textures. Casa Batlló is a building one would see in a fairy tale, with all it's uniqueness and bold approach.
2. Sky Habitat
Architect: Moshe Safdie
This mega residential building was designed with a pair of 'balcony-covered housing towers' that are linked by three aerial walkways. The building is the first of its kind and the design also incorporates a 50-metre pool which is located in the middle of the complex.
3. Tuynhuis
Architect: Robert Silk and Partners
This unique abstract and minimalism designed residential building can be found in the heart of Cape Town, and it definitely stands out with the clever use of the architectural styles. The building consists of 47 compact apartments ranging from ‘studios’ to ‘2-bedroom penthouses.’
4. The White Cloud Residential Development
Architect: Poggi Architects and More Architecture
The most intriguing part of this design, and what probably makes the design abstract; is the unique use of white cages as balconies for each unit. The balconies are cantilevered from the outer walls of the buildings at seemingly random places, lending the houses an air of play, hence the name of the development being: The White Cloud.
5. 25 Verde Residential Development
Architect: Luciano Pia
The load-bearing structure consists of columns made of steel which supports 63 residential units that covered in a forest like scenery. The building 25 verde is truly an abstract design among the surrounding developments.
6. The 8 House
Architect: Bjarke Ingles
Known as the ‘8 House’ located in Copenhagen, has been designed to be cycled on from the street the building is located on to the 10th level penthouses alongside terrace gardens.
7. House of the Big Arch
Architect: Frankie Papas Architects
Designed as a long thin building to allow the forest life to thrive and hide the residential structure, until approached closely; to be seen as a hidden architectural abstract treasure.
8. JOH 3
Architect: J. Mayer H. Architects
A residential development that has been designed to look sculptured and nothing else like any building in the area. The JOH 3 stands out in the streets of Berlin, thus making it a residential abstract piece of art.
9. The Wave
Architect: Henning Larsen
A residential complex in which the design was inspired by a ‘Sea wave.’ The design includes 105 luxurious apartments which are carefully and well integrated in order to maximize the view.
10. City Hyde Park
Architect: Studio Gang
City Hyde Park was a mall before redesigned and structured into unique and elegant residential development. The balconies “stems” were designed to act as columns that take gravity load to the ground.
