The World's 'Ugliest' Buildings

Dominating the Pyongyang skyline, the Ryugyong Hotel's pyramid-like structure is as imposing as it is intriguing. Its 75-degree angled concrete sides and towering height make it a stark landmark in the city's landscape. Initially a symbol of ambition, its construction journey is a tale of halted dreams and renewed efforts.

Architectural Design:‍

The hotel's pyramidal shape is not just visually striking; it's a marvel of engineering ambition, designed to assert North Korea's presence on the world stage.

Unfinished Legacy:‍

The long pauses in construction and the crane at its peak have become part of its identity, symbolizing the challenges of ambitious architectural projects.

Symbol of Ambition:‍

The intention behind its construction—to outdo South Korea's architectural feats—highlights the political and cultural significance imbued within its walls.

A testament to architectural eclecticism, the Harold Washington Library is a blend of neoclassical references and postmodern design elements. Named after a cherished mayor, the building stands as a bold statement in Chicago's architectural landscape.

Design Melange:‍

The library's mixture of styles—from its Mannerist roof to the use of varied materials—embodies the experimental spirit of postmodern architecture.

Scale and Proportion:‍

Its grand scale and the juxtaposition of different architectural motifs invite discussions about the nature of public buildings in urban contexts.

Cultural Homage:‍

Beyond its controversial aesthetics, the building serves as a homage to Harold Washington's legacy, embedding a piece of Chicago's history within its walls.

Emerging from the Amazonian landscape of Puerto Maldonado, The Obelisk is a curious blend of styles that stands in stark contrast to the natural beauty surrounding it. Its design, which combines elements from different eras, makes it a peculiar landmark in this remote part of Peru.

Eclectic Design:‍

The mixture of a curved base, futuristic middle, and medieval top reflects a bold, albeit unconventional, architectural vision.

Sculptural Elements:‍

The base's sculptural details, likened to a creeping fungus, add a layer of intrigue and symbolize the area's rich biodiversity.

Observation Challenge:‍

While its height may not offer expansive views, the very existence of such a structure in a remote jungle town invites curiosity and exploration.

In the flat landscapes of Ohio, the Longaberger Home Office stands out—not just for its size but for its shape: a gigantic replica of a handwoven basket. This building blurs the lines between whimsical design and corporate functionality.

Unique Concept:‍

The building's basket shape is a direct reflection of the company's product, showcasing an unparalleled commitment to brand identity.

Construction Marvel:‍

Its stucco-over-steel design and the attention to detail in replicating a basket weave are achievements in architectural innovation.

Cultural Commentary:‍

Beyond its visual impact, the building offers a playful critique on corporate architecture, challenging what a headquarters should look like.

The Portland Building is a prime example of postmodernism's bold foray into public architecture. Its combination of small windows, terracotta pilasters, and a mix of materials creates a distinctive, if polarizing, aesthetic.

Postmodern Palette:‍

The building's design, with its eclectic mix of materials and motifs, is a celebration of postmodern diversity and experimentation.

Architectural Dialogue:‍

Its design provokes a dialogue on the role and appearance of government buildings, questioning the norms of municipal architecture.

Iconic Status:‍

Despite mixed reviews, the building has achieved an iconic status, becoming a landmark in Portland's architectural scene.

The Fang Yuan Building in Shenyang merges traditional Chinese symbolism with modern architectural elements. Its design, inspired by ancient Chinese coins, represents an attempt to bridge cultural histories with contemporary forms.

Cultural Fusion:‍

The building's square center and circular exterior draw from the shape of ancient Chinese coins, symbolizing a blend of history and modernity.

Architectural Identity:‍

This structure challenges traditional commercial building designs, offering a unique visual narrative that reflects on China's rich cultural heritage.

Innovative Design:‍

The juxtaposition of traditional motifs with modern building techniques showcases the potential for cultural symbols to inform contemporary architecture.

Belarus's National Library is an architectural spectacle, its rhombicuboctahedron shape adorned with color-changing LEDs. Known as "the diamond," this library is a bold experiment in geometric form and technological integration.

Geometric Brilliance:‍

The library's shape—a complex polyhedron—pushes the boundaries of architectural design, combining form with function in a strikingly modern context.

LED Display:‍

The use of color-changing LEDs not only highlights the building's geometric complexity but also transforms it into a dynamic spectacle at night.

Cultural Beacon:‍

Despite its unconventional design, the library serves as a cultural beacon, attracting attention and fostering a sense of national pride.