Civic structures shape cities - the best examples of institutional architecture stand out from the crowd and declare themselves as objects rather than infill. From sensational schools, colleges and universities to magnificent museums, theaters and opera halls, here are some buildings well worth viewing (and visiting should you ever find yourself in the relevant city!).
Urbanus architects give Chinese couples a beautiful, celebratory space set on a reflecting pool in Shenzen to have a civil ceremony.
Japan's police really give a hoot! These 7 Fukuro Koban put a friendly face on local policing while reminding citizens their protectors are always on watch.
An 820-foot-long titanium school of fish was installed in London for the summer to hide a 1970s shopping center from view of Olympic visitors.
A 1500-year-old abbey constantly threatened by stones falling from an abutting cliffside is now protected by a beautiful, modern suspended roof.
Back on the table after nearly a century of talk: a railway to reconnect the Far East with the Far West, enabling a Londoner to travel by rail all the way to the USA
It sounds a little like the premise of some B-caliber science-fiction film: there are residents living in tunnels below the city, with a twist ...
In the face of deadly flood waters, the people of Nongriat, India have a highly creative 500-year-old solution: living bridges made of rubber tree roots.
The Lanyang Museum in Taiwan is inspired by the geological formations that surround it, jutting up out of the ground as if it's pushing forth out of the rock.
The new Maritime and Beachcombers Museum by Mecanoo Architects echoes the shapes of its rustic maritime surroundings on a remote Dutch island.
These 12 hot designer fire stations are hook & ladder leaders in more ways than one, combining WYSIWYG practicality with livability, economy and style.
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