5 original buildings with curious optical illusions (photos)

Modern architecture is not only about the strength and durability of buildings, but often also about their originality and unusualness. Here are several buildings with interesting designs and optical illusions.

Crooked House, Sopot, Poland

This quirky building, designed by architects Szotyński Zaleski Studio, lives up to its name. The entire structure, with curved walls, crooked windows and roof, seems precariously balanced. The use of bright colors and playful details makes the structure even more unusual and interesting.

Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi Hotel, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

This luxury hotel, designed by Asymptote Architecture, seems to defy gravity. The building consists of two separate towers, above which hangs a bridge-like structure that floats above the Yas Marina Circuit Formula 1 race track. The illusion is achieved through a complex network of supports hidden inside the structure.

The Opus, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Opus, designed by renowned architecture firm Zaha Hadid Architects, is a marvel of modern engineering. The building consists of two towers connected to each other, which seemed to be a single cube from which the middle part was cut out. The smooth, curved bridge between the two towers creates the illusion of movement and fluidity, while strategically placed voids allow glimpses into the building's interior. The play of light and shadow on curved surfaces further enhances the illusion.

Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles, USA

This iconic concert hall, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, is a masterpiece of deconstructivism. The building is composed of stainless steel panels that are curved and folded at random angles, creating a shimmering, reflective surface that seems to morph and change depending on the viewer's point of view.

Dancing House, Prague, Czech Republic

Designed by architects Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunić, this deconstructivist masterpiece stands out from Prague's predominantly baroque architecture. Nicknamed the "Dancing House" for its resemblance to a dancing couple, the building consists of two towers that seem to lean on each other: one with a curved glass façade, the other topped with a crown-like structure. The illusion is enhanced by the use of different materials and textures on each tower.