Architecture Projects: 5 Amazing Buildings in the US Released Last Year

In the ever-evolving world of architecture, each year brings forth many awe-inspiring architecture projects that redefine the skyline and challenge our perceptions of design.

This article will delve into the world of architectural marvels unveiled in the US last year. From the West Coast to the East, these projects not only showcase the creativity of renowned architects but also stand as a testament to innovation and functionality.

Let’s explore the heights of design excellence, focusing on residential projects, towering skyscrapers, and the ingenuity of studios architecture. 

We’ll take a look at the (W)rapper Tower in Los Angeles, the Brooklyn Tower in New York, the Glider Center, the Perelman Performing Arts Center, and The Spiral – all of which have left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape. Let’s dive in!

1. (W)rapper Tower (Eric Owen Moss, LA)

Our journey begins on the vibrant streets of Los Angeles, where Eric Owen Moss’s (W)rapper Tower serves as evidence of the city’s avant-garde character and innovative nature.

This 235-foot (72-meter) structure, named for its unique structural support system wrapping around the facade, reflects Moss’s visionary approach to design. Planned over decades and recently completed, the tower is a testament to innovation, sustainability, and structural ingenuity.

The tower’s T-shaped plan encompasses a rectangular primary volume, gracefully curved on one end, housing most of the usable floor space. An externalized core, home to direct circulation and additional rooms, adds a distinctive touch to the architectural narrative.

The exterior is a captivating blend of glass and steel support structures extending across the facade to isolators below ground level.

Wrapped in fireproof cementitious plaster of a muted grey hue, the (W)rapper Tower captivates aesthetically and boasts earthquake-resistant features, rating “five times the conventional seismic criteria.” According to Moss, it’s not just a building; it’s a safe haven meant to withstand seismic events and endure the test of time.

The tower’s exterior staircase, created from the same materials as the wraps, zigzags up one side, seamlessly blending with the structural elements. Despite using carbon-intensive materials, Moss envisions the longevity contributing positively to the building’s overall carbon footprint.

Beyond structural resilience, (W)rapper Tower is a creative hub within the city. Moss envisions a space that fosters professional, entrepreneurial open-mindedness and embraces heterogeneity in style.

The sculptural facade and varying height configurations from floor to floor contribute to the building’s dynamic and flexible interior design.

Functionality meets aesthetics as the building connects directly to the adjacent metro line, allowing occupants to seamlessly transition from public transportation to the tower.

(W)rapper Tower serves as the inaugural piece in the grand design of The New City, with two additional towers approved by Los Angeles’ city council.

As Moss’s architectural legacy continues to unfold, this project stands as a building and a visionary symbol of sustainable resilience, urban connectivity, and creative inspiration.

Fun Fact: Moss’s (W)rapper Tower is the first of three towers planned for the area, forming a part of the larger project named The New City, with plans for a pedestrian bridge connecting the site to the Hayden Tract in Culver City.

2. Brooklyn Tower (SHoP Architects, NY)

Our next stop is the iconic borough of Brooklyn in New York, where SHoP Architects has left an indelible mark on the skyline. The Brooklyn Tower, a residential masterpiece, seamlessly combines luxury living with a commitment to community engagement.

This architectural gem is not simply a structure; it represents the evolving narrative of urban living. The tower’s striking façade, adorned with sleek lines and a contemporary aesthetic, captivates the observer’s eye, creating an unmistakable silhouette against the city skyline.

The interior of the Brooklyn Tower is a harmonious blend of modern design and functional elegance. Spacious, light-filled apartments provide panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape, ensuring that residents feel connected to the vibrant energy of Brooklyn and enjoy a sense of refuge from the hustle and bustle below.

Each design aspect reflects meticulous attention to detail, from the carefully curated common spaces fostering a sense of community to the incorporation of cutting-edge smart home technologies.

Beyond its architectural splendor, the Brooklyn Tower stands as a symbol of sustainability and environmental consciousness. SHoP Architects has integrated innovative eco-friendly features, such as energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, and green roofs.

These sustainable elements contribute to the tower’s LEED certification and showcase a dedication to responsible urban development. Residents can enjoy luxurious living spaces while becoming part of a community that values modernity and environmental stewardship.

The Brooklyn Tower’s impact extends beyond its physical structure. SHoP Architects has been actively engaged in community outreach programs, working collaboratively with local organizations to enhance Brooklyn’s cultural fabric.

The tower hosts art exhibitions, community events, and educational programs, cultivating a sense of inclusivity and shared experiences among its residents and the wider community. This commitment to community engagement transforms the Brooklyn Tower into a cultural hub and motivation for positive urban transformation.

Brooklyn Tower by SHoP Architects is a multifaceted marvel transcending conventional notions of residential architecture. It not only provides a luxurious and sustainable living experience but also contributes to Brooklyn’s cultural and environmental vitality.

As we reflect on this masterpiece, it becomes clear that the Brooklyn Tower embodies the dynamic spirit of New York City.

Fun Fact: The Brooklyn Tower in New York incorporates a series of hidden rooftop gardens, providing residents with private green spaces and stunning city views, seamlessly blending urban living with a touch of nature.

3. Glider Center (Studio Gang, NY)

As we venture further into New York, Studio Gang’s Glider Center emerges as a beacon of architectural prowess. Located in the heart of the city, this multifunctional space serves as an epicenter for creativity, innovation, and community engagement.

The Glider Center’s design, characterized by fluid lines and dynamic spaces, reflects Studio Gang’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional architecture. This project celebrates the diverse and dynamic nature of New York’s creative scene, from artist studios to collaborative workspaces.

Fun Fact: The Glider Center’s design is inspired by the graceful movements of gliding birds, fostering a sense of freedom and fluidity within its walls.

4. Perelman Performing Arts Center (Rex Architecture Studio, NY)

Our architectural journey in New York continues with the unveiling of the Perelman Performing Arts Center, a project by Rex Architecture Studio. Nestled in the city’s cultural heart, this center transcends traditional notions of performing arts spaces.

The design, characterized by its dynamic and adaptable spaces, reflects a commitment to providing a platform for diverse artistic expressions. The Perelman Performing Arts Center stands as a testament to the power of architecture to create spaces that inspire and elevate the human spirit.

Fun Fact: The Perelman Performing Arts Center features state-of-the-art acoustic design, ensuring an unparalleled auditory experience for every performance.

5. The Spiral (BIG Architecture, NY)

Our final destination is the ambitious and visually stunning project by BIG Architecture – The Spiral. Located in the heart of New York, this towering edifice redefines the city’s skyline. With its spiraling design and lush green terraces, The Spiral seamlessly blends urban living with the tranquility of nature.

As one of the tallest buildings in New York, this project represents a harmonious coexistence of architectural innovation and environmental sustainability.

Fun Fact: The Spiral’s design is inspired by the classic step-back skyscraper model but with a modern twist – creating a visually striking and environmentally conscious architectural masterpiece.

In Conclusion

In the ever-changing field of architecture, these five projects stand as a testament to the limitless possibilities architects can achieve. Each project tells a unique story, from the (W)rapper Tower’s eco-friendly design in LA to The Spiral’s harmonious blend of nature and urban living in New York.

As we look back on the architectural wonders of the past year, we can’t help but anticipate what the future holds for the ever-evolving world of architecture. These buildings are more than structures; they reflect the creative spirit that propels our cities into new realms of design excellence.

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