10 Fascinating and Unusual Types of Architecture from Around the World

Architecture is an art form that has been around for thousands of years, and it has evolved and taken many forms across different cultures and regions. While some styles of architecture are more well-known than others, there are many fascinating and unusual types of architecture from around the world that are worth exploring. Here are ten examples of such types of architecture.

1. The Floating Villages of Southeast Asia In Southeast Asia, particularly in Cambodia and Vietnam, there are floating villages built on rivers and lakes. These communities are entirely self-contained and rely on fishing and farming to sustain themselves.
2. The Walled City of Kowloon, Hong Kong The Walled City of Kowloon was once the most densely populated place on earth. It was a lawless place, with no government or police presence. It was home to tens of thousands of people who built their homes and businesses in the cramped and narrow streets.
3. The Vertical Forests of Milan, Italy The Vertical Forests of Milan are two towers covered in over 900 trees and thousands of shrubs and plants. The towers help to reduce pollution and provide a habitat for birds and insects in the city.
4. The Cave Dwellings of Cappadocia, Turkey The Cave Dwellings of Cappadocia are a network of homes and churches built into the soft volcanic rock of the region. They were used as shelter and hiding places during times of war and persecution.
5. The Round Houses of Fujian, China The Round Houses of Fujian are unique structures built by the Hakka people. They are circular in shape and have thick walls made of mud and straw, providing protection against flooding and attacks.
6. The Treehouses of Costa Rica In Costa Rica, there are treehouses built in the rainforest that allow visitors to stay close to nature. Some of these structures are built on stilts and have breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.
7. The Earthen Houses of Yemen The Earthen Houses of Yemen are made of clay and straw and are built in a style that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. They are designed to be cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and are built to withstand earthquakes.
8. The Ice Hotels of Sweden In Sweden, there are hotels made entirely of ice that are rebuilt every winter. The structures are carved from ice blocks taken from a nearby river and feature intricate sculptures and decorations.
9. The Skyscrapers of Dubai, UAE Dubai is known for its impressive skyline, which features some of the tallest buildings in the world. The architecture in Dubai is futuristic and innovative, with buildings that twist and turn in unusual shapes.
10. The Houses on Stilts of Borneo, Malaysia In Borneo, there are villages built on stilts that are designed to protect against flooding and to provide a cooler living environment. These structures are made of wood and have a unique and charming look.

These are just a few examples of the fascinating and unusual types of architecture from around the world. From floating villages to treehouses, each of these structures tells a story about the people and cultures that created them. By exploring these unique forms of architecture, we can gain a greater understanding of the diversity and creativity of human beings.