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7 of the Most Iconic Roofs From Around the World

If you thought a roof was a just a functional part of your building, into which little aesthetic thought has been given, then you might wish to re-evaluate when you start to consider some of iconic buildings from the around the world. From elaborate design to breath-taking beauty these buildings are often defined by the imaginative style and architecture that has gone into their roof, transforming them into instantly recognisable features on the global landscape.

There are, of course, plenty of iconic roofs from which to choose, each offering an insight into the cultural influences of its location yet remaining distinctive and instantly recognisable; from sports stadia to temples. And here are just a few examples of some stunning roof tops that adorn their respective skylines.

The Domes of St Mark's Basilica €“ Venice

The roof domes of St Mark's BasilicaDomed Ceiling in St Marks Bascilica

Among the array of astonishing ancient Venetian monuments stands the Basilica of St Mark's, and at its centrepiece, the 5 mighty domes of the church roof. The site, one of the most important landmarks in Christendom, is a mix of Byzantium, Roman and Venetian architecture, shaped over half a millennia. Alongside its religious significance the building is a symbol of past glory and the opulence of the Venetian trade industry of centuries past; towering marble columns, and the astonishing gold-gilded mosaics which adorn the underside of the impressive dome roofs. The 5 domes of the roof tower atop the extraordinary faĂƒÂ§ade of the cathedral church, off-setting the rich, story-telling architecture of this medieval masterpiece.

Sydney Opera House - Australia

Sydney Opera House

In stark contrast to the ancient roof design of St Mark's is one of the most iconic roofs of Twentieth Century design and just about the most famous landmark in Australia. There are few more recognisable roof designs than the Sydney Opera House, standing imperiously at the water's edge in Sydney Harbour. From the mind of Danish architect JĂƒÂ¸rn Utzon comes this unique roof design. A towering structure of 3 brilliant white shells, interlocking and arching over the  terrace below; it's gleaming brilliance off-setting against the blue water below and the towering black iron of the Harbour bridge above. Created out of pre-cast concrete, the visual impact of the roof comes from its covering of glazed white Swedish tiles. Opened in 1973 by Queen Elizabeth II, the site quickly established itself as one of the world's most iconic buildings, its roof design recognised as a masterpiece and heralded across the globe. While there have been further modifications to the Opera House in the years since, that original, classic shell roof remains at its heart and one of the most popular photos opportunities anywhere in Australia.

The Bird's Nest €“ Beijing Olympic Stadium

Olympic stadium Beijing The Birds Nest

Constructed for the 2008 Olympic Games the Bird's Nest as it became affectionately known quickly established itself as one of the most recognisable sporting arenas on the planet; thanks largely to the remarkable artistry and design of its distinctive roof. The original idea was for the roof of the stadium to be retractable, in line with other modern sporting venues, but this was abandoned in construction although the interweaving steel framework remained in place, becoming the iconic feature that we know of today. A collaborative project, the roof design was the brainchild of architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron alongside project architect Stefan Marbach, artist Ai Weiwei, and chief architect Li Xinggang. The roof takes on the appearance of randomly intertwined steel beams, giving rise to the bird's nest nickname. However, each placement is meticulously placed to offer complete support of the enormous structure and is a modern icon of 21st Century sports arenas.

The Chrysler Building, New York City

The roof of the Chrysler building

Of all the towering skyscrapers that make up the skyline of Manhattan, there are 2 which tend to stand out above all else. The Empire State Building is the obvious choice, for its enormity, its distinctive tower and the fact that a giant gorilla once swatted bi-planes from the roof (note: did not actually happen!). However, take a look across the skyline and you'll find a truly iconic roof top that simply defines the golden age of New York City €“ The Chrysler Building. A sign of the opulence of the Roarin' Twenties €“ although eventually opened in post-Crash 1930 €“ the Chrysler was the first giant tower of Manhattan. Empire may have eclipsed its size a year later but there are few more recognisable totems of 20th Century construction than the needle-like Art Deco majesty that is the roof of William Van Alen's iconic Chrysler; looking as impressive today as it did upon opening.

The Taj Mahal - India

The Taj Mahal has an incredibly iconic roof

Stepping back to more ancient monuments the Taj Mahal is one of India's most recognisable constructions; the elegant domes of its roof framed by the towering columns an image known throughout the world. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal is a seventeenth century construction built for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife who had died in childbirth. Constructed from marble the building is a blend of ancient Persian and Indian architecture €“ the elegant curves of its domed roof designed to perfectly offset the sleek lines of its walls, offering a masterpiece of symmetrical construction that has endured across the centuries, remaining one of the great structures through to the modern era.

The Grand Palace €“ Bangkok

The Grand Palace in Thailand has one of the most Iconic Roofs in Asia.

An intricately crafted example of classic eastern design, the Grand Palace of Bangkok is one of the great landmarks of Thailand and a must see for all architectural enthusiasts who just love a good roof. Constructed in the late 1700s the Palace is comprised of a series of smaller buildings, each offering a different roof design which blend seamlessly to form a charming, distinctively far-eastern skyline. Steeply pitched roofs, of ornate gold trim and soft reds and blue, intersperse with concave towers and needle-like steeples. Each roof of varying height the delivering an architectural tapestry of stunning beauty; a mix of eastern artwork, careful design and creativity this is a representation of Thai culture and history.

 

Are there any you think we've missed? Let us know in the comments section below. Don't forget to share this article using the sharing icons below.

Published at: 04-03-2016

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