3 architectural destinations for the (next) summer…

Imagine we’re back to normality (because now, even though some of us might fake it, the situation has gone way beyond). We’re in July, a month when some of you are already taking a holiday or at least preparing for one in August. Well, I’m at a crossroads since I am not sure what will happen in August and I certainly am not very much known for my courage to face these kind of situations without overthinking. However, I am not here to talk about that, but I would like to make some proposals for places where I would like to go soon after things get into balance.

As you might remember, I am an architect, so what better than suggesting some of my favourite “architectural” destinations to visit.

1. Barcelona, Spain

Some of you might be surprised, but I am really curious to see this fascinating city. It has stayed into my mind from University, when they tought us about its urbanistic structure: a regular grid where Sagrada Famiglia stands out as a symbol of the city even when looked from up. Here you can visit some of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works, starting with the famous Cathedral just mentioned, and going on and on with Casa Batlló, Casa Mila, Park Güell (see photo). The inspiration from human anatomy and from natural forms proves a successful combination of architecture and art. The truth is that I find this city beautiful for adults, professionals and non, but also for children, since I believe it introduces everyone in a sort of fairytale. Maybe I’m wrong, but I would certainly like to find out, so if you have already been there, you are welcome to share your experience in the comments.

Image by Adrian Balea from Pixabay

2. San Francisco, USA

I bet you didn’t see that coming. Well, let’s just say that even though there are controversial opinions regarding this famous American city, I think that the combination of different architectural styles with influences from various parts of the world, put together with the ocean and the green areas, but also with the unique topography, makes it one of the most atractive cities around the world. I consider myself one of the lucky ones, having been there and being able to experience its charm. Therefore, I would totally advise you to visit SFMOMA, one of the most well-known museums of modern art in the world, but also to take a walk at the magnificent Palace of Fine Arts (see photo) designed by Bernard Maybeck. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Xanadu Gallery is also a must-see even only for being considered as the predecesor of the Guggenheim Museum. Also, don’t miss the so-called “Painted Ladies”, seven Victorian houses much loved by tourists of all kinds. There is certainly a lot to see also in the Downtown neighbourhood, where the Transamerica Pyramid “reigns”. But don’t worry, because San Francisco really offers every kind of attraction, from a famous chocolate factory to the “unescapable” prison of Alcatraz, from the amazing Golden Gate bridge to the “unlimited” Golden Gate park, I’m pretty sure you will enjoy it! Just be sure to consider the windy weather when packing 😉

Image by Adam Derewecki from Pixabay

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

I haven’t been there, totally on my list! I am pretty fascinated about the contemporary architecture there, and by that I refer to the kind of architecture that tries to come closer to humans. Architect Jan Gehl (who, by the way, was born in Copenhagen) deals often with “cities for people”, trying to give guidelines to designers around the world for this kind of approach. I totally agree with his view and I believe that Copenhagen might be one of the cities that most approaches this concept. From residential buildings, such as The Wave designed by Henning Larsen Architects to concepts of green architecture such as Copenhill designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), Copenhagen has a lot to offer and a lot to teach to most contemporary architects and not only. You will find also the most “romantic” side of this “multicolored” city. Whether you are of this or the opposite opinion, please share it, I will be glad to find out more about the city before I get to actually visit it.

Image by Jens Peter Olesen from Pixabay

I will stop here for today, but maybe I will keep writing on this topic, since by bucket list is certainly not over yet! Have a great weekend, I’ll be back next week!