Architects can be creative with everything from layouts to the shape of buildings.
Tower blocks can get a lot of disdain from communities. Some criticise designs for being too tall or unsympathetic to an area. However, apartments are an important form of housing. They can also often be the best choice for built up areas as they create more homes on a smaller footprint of land. To be successful with apartment blocks, architects need to be clever with the designs. They can get creative to ensure the buildings make the right impression. Below are some examples of projects that break the mould by choosing a design that is drastically different from the typical cuboid ones.
Fake Hills, China
One of the most interesting ideas uses similar topography to what you would find in an area with rolling hillsides. Instead of a standard flat roof, the building has an undulating design. It is an interesting idea and really stands out on the skyline.
The Wave, Denmark
Sticking with inspirations from nature, this amazing design has a roof with five crests and three troughs, imitating rolling waves. It is a really great sight, and fits perfectly into the waterfront setting.
Prospect Place, London
This was the first UK project for Frank Gehry. You can see his style in the distinct rippling facade. What could be further from a boring cube shape? In fact, every one of the 300 flats is unique.
L'Arbre Blanc, France
The natural world is the main inspiration here again. The design takes the idea from a tree with its leaves fanning out. This inspires the layout of the balconies and how they spread from the inner structure.
Busan Times, South Korea
If you compare to some of the other buildings this is a rather modest development of four stories. However, the design is extra special. It resembles an owl, with the upper apartment looking like the face and the eastern side depicting the wing.