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Hello again, this time with some inspiration for your next trip around the world, especially if you are an architect, designer or a traveller passionate with architectural destinations. So let’s see a few ideas that are on our “places-to-see” list and that we think you might enjoy as well.
1. Copenhagen, Denmark is definitely the number one destination for architectural travellers this year. It has been nominated by UNESCO the World Architecture Capital in 2023 and is therefore hosting several events on related topics. However, if you prefer to simply wander on the streets of the Nordic city, this can give you an excellent idea of contemporary architecture. From the works of Bjarke Ingels Group to the Royal Danish Opera House, The Circle Bridge, the spectacular Øresund Bridge and the modern harbourfront urban interventions, Copenhagen is definitely a city full of architectural surprises and it often “sets the tone” to the design world. Just think of the original concept behind the CopenHill, where industry comes to support ecosustainability by transforming waste into clean energy and becomes an architectural symbol through the ski slope on top of the building. And while you’re there, don’t forget to bring some thoughts to the loved ones such as a wonderful art print to remember the places of Copenhagen.
2. Venice, Italy is yet another destination that you should absolutely consider…and do it fast! The International Architecture Exhibition of “Biennale Architettura 2023” is about to end in November but there is still some time to enjoy it and the marvellous examples of architecture and design that it brings by. No wonder it is one of the most important architectural events in the world. This year’s topic deals with “The Laboratory of the Future” and is curated by architect Lesley Lokko, appreciated internationally for the numerous contributions to architectural education. Venice thus becomes a place of inspiration and awareness, where architecture is both an exhibit and an exhibition. A place to remember and definitely the place to be and enjoy wandering around the canals of the water city where the astounding silence at night makes you wonder if the place is real or imaginary. The total contrast between the sometimes overwhelming number of tourists by day and the “no man on Earth” atmosphere by night makes it ideal to walk around and explore the magnificent (and romantic) views.
3. Paris, France, is and will be the definition of architravel destinations. Here you can find both tradition and novelty. You can find the foundations of urban planning with Haussmann’s renovation of the city at the end of the 1800s, and the great contemporary works that make you wish to be a part of the place. No wonder that so many architectural studios around the world have headquarters in Paris as well. Ateliers Jean Nouvelle, Christian de Portzamparc or the recent Pritzker Prize winners, Lacaton and Vassal architects are just a few of the studios established in the city. Therefore, if you are a young architect or designer in search for work, you might even consider transforming this architravel into your destination for the next employment. But this is another archistory 😄. Let’s go back to travelling for architectural pleasure and go to…
4. Amsterdam, The Netherlands, a fascinating city with so many design attractions. From the Amsterdam University College of the reknown architectural studio Mecanoo to the Centraal Station, to buildings destined to sports, museums and residences, the city has so much to show and you will definitely have many stops to make. This year in particular you can also visit the new exhibition on Johannes Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum and find out more about the painter and his works viewed from new perspectives. The research behind the works is shared with visitors in a new and inspiring approach. Also, the best part of the Netherlands is how well connected cities are. If you take a few more free days, consider that trains will bring you quickly to many other important cities, all filled with architectural attractions, like Delft, Eindhoven, Rotterdam. Take it into consideration when booking your ticket!
5. Málaga, Spain – it may be a surprise, but since we visited this city, it conquered us and it seems to be a place full of unexpected perspectives. Events are going on and on, there is a “fresh” atmosphere with a desire to keep developing and with several start ups that consider it the ideal place for their headquarters. In fact, Málaga hosts one of the most important technology poles around the world with its Parque Tecnológico de Andalucía where designers, architects but also experts from many other fields find the path to grow. It is moreover the city where Picasso was born and this is a year full of events for celebrating the painter so you will definitely find many cultural attractions. The harbour with its “Palmeral de las Sorpresas” gives a great opportunity to take a walk near the sea and when you less expect it, the colorful building of the Centre Pompidou Málaga makes its entrance with a wonderful background at sea.
Source: Personal collection @ccarchitecturestudio
Source: Personal collection @ccarchitecturestudio
So what do you think of these ideas? I would say…don’t waste any more time, just go and book your tickets for any one of these architravel destinations and you will not regret it! We would love to hear from you as soon as you come back and we will be waiting instead with the next archistory 😄. See you!
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