(BAD) Blog About Design: Architecture Around The World: Amsterdam

http://www.hmctravel.com

Amsterdam is an incredible city in the Netherlands. In 2010, Amsterdam was ranked 13th globally on quality of living. It's a city rich in architectural history. Architecture in Amsterdam has seen many changes throughout the centuries. In the 16th century, wood structures were demolished to make way for brick structures. During this time many buildings were built in the Dutch Renaissance style. In the 17th century, Baroque architecture was the main design. In the 18th century, French culture heavily influenced the city's architecture therefore, Neo-Gothic architecture became the norm. The 19th century was all about Art-Nouveau. (ABOVE) As you can see from this aerial shot, the city has many different architectural styles. The differences in the buildings give the city and incredible look and energy. Despite most of the buildings being attached to each other, each has its own voice. (BELOW 1) The Zaandam hotel is such an interesting hotel architecturally. The hotel is designed to look like buildings stacked upon buildings. The blue building stacked at the top right is the bridal suite. Pretty cool, huh? (BELOW 2) The Oude Kerk is the oldest building in Amsterdam, built in 1306. It's interesting to see the buildings around the church, they almost 'protect' it. (BELOW 3) The city archives building, was built in 1923. I love the modernity and complexity of the structure. If you stare at the building long enough, the stripes start playing with your eyes. The building is a large "Colonnes de Buren" installation! (BELOW 4) The Begijnhof is one of the oldest inner courts in Amsterdam. Many of the facades of the buildings in the court date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, however, the actual framework dates back to the Gothic period. What do you think of Amsterdam?