Modern architecture is vastly different from that followed centuries back. Buildings of today incorporate a lot of sleek lines with a minimalistic approach. They also take into consideration the importance of making use of environmentally friendly building materials. If you look closely, you’ll notice that several modern establishments have solar vents, roof gardens and large windows that are strategically placed to facilitate the movement of wind and the entry of natural light. So, what happens with old meets new? Well, get ready to find out with MEI Architecture’s parking garage located in Almere, The Netherlands.
The architects chose to fuse modern architectural practices with designs prevalent centuries back. The result is an interesting piece of work that has drawn admiration from several quarters. A first glance will lead you into thinking that you’ve stumbled across a structure dating back to the times of Egypt’s pharaohs. But, a closer look will reveal that it is a building that has incorporated images native to the province of Flevoland in The Netherlands, including birds, garden gnomes and windmills.
The garage called Block 11 is part of Almere Buiten’s expansion plans. It has a parking capacity for 413 vehicles and incorporates many natural elements in its construction. Besides the images crafted on the façade, what’s interesting is the perforated panels used to build this innovative garage. The panels have been stretched using a technique commonly implemented in the automotive industry. The result is a semi transparent facade, whose perforations facilitate ventilation and the entry of natural light.
The unique architecture of the building creates the illusion of an open space particularly at night, where outsiders can look in through the panels. The outer walls also incorporate plant holders not usually seen in such establishments. MEI Architecture’s innovative design has received praise for its combination of environment friendliness and aesthetics, and we only wish that more architects would come up with such amazing ideas.
Via: Trendhunter
