Suntop Homes: Increasing Single-Family Density In Suburbs

Shell Chalets - Mountain Creations by Gerard Grandval

Futuro house: A Pod That Transport Us To The Future

Druzhba Sanatorium: A Health Spa With Sea Views

Kubuswoningen: Optimizing The Living Space & Rooms

Happy Rizzi House: A Cartoon-Like Facade That Puts A Smile On Your Face

Bioscleave House: Stimulating The Immune Systems Through Colors

Torres Blancas: Organic Architecture

Bolwoningen: An Odd Cluster of Spherical Houses

Reversible Destiny Lofts: A Design in Memory Of Helen Keller

The Nakagin Capsule Tower: An Example of Japanese Metabolism

Wat Rong Khun: The White Temple

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: Titanium Brilliance

Taj Mahal: A Testament to Eternal Love

Bubble Palace: Unveiling the Unique Design

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Architecture - Retro Scholar

The Suntop Homes were quadruple residences located in Ardmore, Pennsylvania.

Gerard Grandval, a French architect, designed these shell-shaped structures in the 1960s.

A Futuro house, or Futuro Pod, is a round, prefabricated house designed by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen, of which fewer than 100 were built during the late 1960s and early 1970s

The Druzhba Sanatorium is a health spa built in 1986, not a secret military building.

Druzhba was built in 1986, designed by famous Soviet architect Igor Vasilevsky, the structure overlooking the sea was so ominous Turkish spies assumed it was a secret military building. They couldn’t have been more wrong. The building, whose name means “friendship,” is actually a health spa.

Kubuswoningen are a set of innovative houses built in Rotterdam in the Netherlands, designed by architect Piet Blom.

Cube houses (Dutch: Kubuswoningen) are a set of innovative houses built in Rotterdam in the Netherlands, designed by architect Piet Blom in the late 1970's and finished building in 1984.

The Happy Rizzi House is a building in Braunschweig, Germany that was designed by American artist James Rizzi.

The Bioscleave House is designed by Arakawa and Madeline Gins in 2008. They built the home for $2 million.

Torres Blancas is a mixed use concrete building in Madrid, Spain, designed in 1961 by Spanish architect Francisco Javier Sáenz de Oiza.

Bolwoningen are an odd cluster of spherical houses, built in 1984 by artist Dries Kreijkamp.

This odd cluster of spherical houses is known as Bolwoningen, built in 1984 by artist Dries Kreijkamp.

The Reversible Destiny Lofts were built in 2005 in suburban Mitaka in Tokyo, coined by Shusaku Arakawa and Madeline Gins.

Tokyo's Nakagin Capsule Tower, a pioneering example of metabolist architecture from the 1970s.

Explore Tokyo's Nakagin Capsule Tower, a pioneering example of metabolist architecture from the 1970s. Uncover the unique modular capsules that make up this iconic structure, showcasing the future of urban living in the heart of Japan's bustling metropolis.

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a museum of modern and contemporary art designed by Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry, located in Bilbao.

Standing majestically on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, India, the Taj Mahal is an enduring symbol of love and one of the most iconic structures in the world. This exquisite white marble mausoleum, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, has captivated millions with its beauty and architectural brilliance since its completion in 1653. Beyond its romantic origins, the Taj Mahal is a testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of India, blending various architectural styles to create a masterpiece that has stood the test of time.

The Taj Mahal stands as an unparalleled testament to love, an architectural marvel that transcends time and borders.

Why Was the Taj Mahal Built and How Was Its Construction Achieved?

The construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632, the year after Mumtaz Mahal's death. Mumtaz Mahal, whose name means "Chosen One of the Palace," was the emperor's favorite wife and bore him fourteen children. Her death during childbirth devastated Shah Jahan, and he vowed to build the most beautiful mausoleum in her honor.

Over 20,000 artisans and craftsmen from across India, Persia, the Ottoman Empire, and Europe were involved in the construction, which took about 22 years to complete. The chief architect, Ustad Ahmad Lahauri, designed the Taj Mahal to combine elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles. The use of white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones, intricate calligraphy, and expansive gardens made the Taj Mahal an unparalleled architectural achievement.

What Are the Architectural Features and Design Elements of the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal is renowned for its symmetrical design and intricate details. The central structure is a large, white marble tomb topped by a massive dome and surrounded by four smaller domes. The main dome, often described as an "onion dome" due to its shape, rises to a height of approximately 73 meters (240 feet) and is crowned by a gilded finial.

Flanking the tomb are two identical buildings made of red sandstone: a mosque and a guest house, which maintain the architectural harmony of the complex. The entire mausoleum sits on a raised platform with four minarets at each corner, slightly tilting outwards to protect the main structure in case of a collapse.

The interior of the Taj Mahal is equally impressive, with a central chamber housing the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan. These cenotaphs are exquisitely carved with intricate floral designs and calligraphy. However, the actual graves are located in a lower, relatively plain chamber directly beneath.

The Taj Mahal's gardens, known as the Charbagh, are inspired by Persian-style gardens and symbolize paradise in Islamic tradition. Divided into four quarters by water channels, the gardens feature an array of flowering plants, trees, and fountains that enhance the serene and divine atmosphere.

How Does the Taj Mahal Symbolize Both Eternal Love and India's Cultural Diversity?

The Taj Mahal is often referred to as a "teardrop on the cheek of time," symbolizing both the emperor's grief and undying love for his wife. Its construction represents the zenith of Mughal architecture, characterized by its grand scale, intricate artistry, and harmonious proportions.

Beyond its romantic significance, the Taj Mahal stands as a symbol of India's rich history and cultural diversity. It reflects the synthesis of various artistic traditions and architectural influences that have shaped the Indian subcontinent.

What Challenges Has the Taj Mahal Faced Over the Centuries and How Are Efforts Being Made to Preserve It?

Over the centuries, the Taj Mahal has faced numerous challenges, including environmental pollution, changing weather patterns, and the pressures of tourism. Efforts to preserve and protect the monument have included restricting industrial activity in the surrounding area, promoting eco-friendly transportation, and regular maintenance and restoration work.

Despite these efforts, the Taj Mahal's marble surface has been affected by pollution, leading to discoloration and deterioration. Conservationists continue to seek sustainable solutions to ensure that this UNESCO World Heritage site remains intact for future generations to admire and cherish.

The Taj Mahal is more than just an architectural wonder; it is a symbol of eternal love, a masterpiece of artistic achievement, and a testament to the cultural and historical legacy of India. Its timeless beauty and intricate craftsmanship continue to inspire awe and admiration from visitors around the world. As one of the most recognizable and beloved monuments, the Taj Mahal remains a poignant reminder of the power of love and the enduring impact of human creativity.

True to its name, the Bubble Palace features a series of interconnected bubble-shaped rooms. These bubbles were initially conceptualized for Pierre Bernard, a French industrialist. Pierre Bernard was convinced by Antti Lovag’s talent and innovative ideas and gave him the freedom, the means and the opportunity to implement them.

The Bubble Palace, also referred to as 'Palais Bulles,' is a spacious 1200 sqm residence that consists of an arrangement of interconnected bubble spaces, designed by Hungarian architect Antti Lovag and built between 1975 and 1989.

Bubble Palace, also known as ‘Palais Bulles’ is a 1200 sqm house. It is a cluster of interwoven bubble spaces.

Unlike traditional buildings that are constructed with straight lines and right angles, the Bubble Palace's construction involved the use of prefabricated reinforced concrete bubbles, which were assembled on-site. 

Around the Bubble Palace you'll find more than 8,500 square meters of terraces with tropical gardens, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline. These terraces provide space for outdoor living and entertainment, with seating areas, dining spaces, pools, and lounging areas strategically positioned to maximize enjoyment of the panoramic views. Plus, there's a 500-seat amphitheater to enjoy some entertainment under the open sky.

One of the most iconic features of the exterior is the infinity pool, which appears to merge seamlessly with the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The pool's sleek design and cascading waterfalls add to the sense of luxury and tranquility, providing a stunning focal point for outdoor gatherings and relaxation.

Nestled into the rugged coastline below the Bubble Palace is a private beach, accessible via a series of winding pathways and staircases. This secluded stretch of sand offers residents and guests a serene retreat where they can swim, sunbathe, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the French Riviera away from the crowds.

The Bubble Palace exemplifies Antti Lovag's vision of "habitology," a concept that emphasizes the creation of living spaces that are in harmony with human nature. He believed that traditional architecture with its rigid lines and angles did not reflect the fluidity of human life, and he sought to create environments that were more organic, adaptable, and conducive to human well-being.

The Bubble Palace and its interior were designed and decorated like an art work. Inspired by murals of Patrice Breteau, Jérôme Tisserand, Daniel You, François Chauvin and Gérard Le Cloarec grace the labyrinthine hallways and bubble-shaped rooms. 

Pierre Cardin bought the Bubble Palace in 1992

The Bubble Palace gained widespread recognition when it was purchased by the French fashion designer Pierre Cardin in 1992. Cardin was drawn to the property's avant-garde design and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. He transformed the Bubble Palace into a luxurious retreat and hosted numerous extravagant events and parties there over the years.

Throughout the interior, futuristic design elements abound, from curved walls and ceilings to built-in lighting fixtures and futuristic furnishings. The overall aesthetic is sleek, modern, and avant-garde, reflecting Pierre Cardin's vision of creating a living space that is both innovative and luxurious.

Each room in the Bubble Palace has its own distinct theme and decor, reflecting Cardin's eclectic tastes and interests. Some rooms feature bold, geometric patterns, while others showcase whimsical sculptures and objets d'art. There are also themed suites dedicated to different cultural influences, such as the Asian-inspired "Buddha Room" and the African-inspired "Safari Room."

Pierre Cardin was an avid art collector, and his extensive collection is prominently displayed throughout the Bubble Palace. Visitors can admire works by renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, and Fernand Léger, among others. The art adds to the eclectic and avant-garde ambiance of the interior spaces.

Much of the furniture inside the Bubble Palace is custom-designed to complement the unique architecture of the building. Pierre Cardin, the owner, collaborated with renowned designers, including Patrice Breteau, Jerome Tisserand, Daniel You, François Chauvin, and Gerard Cloarec, to create pieces that reflect the futuristic aesthetic of the property. Some of these pieces feature bold colors, unconventional shapes, and innovative materials.

The Bubble Palace has become a cultural landmark and a symbol of architectural innovation. It has been featured in numerous films, fashion shoots, and design publications, attracting visitors and enthusiasts from around the world who come to admire its distinctive architecture and breathtaking setting.

Travis Scott’s music video for the song K-POP featuring with The Weeknd and Bad Bunny was shot in the Bubble Palace. The former property of Pierre Bernard & Pierre Cardin is undoubtedly used to attract attention.

A summary of the history of the Bubble Palace

Over the years a lot has happened to the the Bubble Palace. Read on to find out what happened to this iconic building.



The Bubble Palace was built by architect Antti Lovag for Pierre Bernard, a French industrialist.



Fashion designer Pierre Cardin bought the house after Bernard's death. It was bought by Cardin to be used as a holiday home.



The Bubble Palace was a stage for Pierre Cardin’s fashion show.



Dior presented its 2016 collection in this iconic house.



France architect and academic Odile Decq completed a five-year renovation for the Bubble Palace.



It was listed for sale with an asking price of €350 million, but did not find a buyer. It could be rented to groups for $33,200 a day.



It has been suggested that the building be turned into a public venue for art expos.



Videoclip K-POP from Travis Scott was shot at the Bubble Palace.