I like to think there are some impressive new buildings in Vancouver, and there are. But after five days in Berlin, I realize that there is so much more we could be doing....if only we changed our attitude towards the importance of architecture, make that Architecture; and the need for clients and patrons to be willing to spend a bit more money!
So without further ado...just a few of the buildings I noticed traveling around Berlin for the past few days. When I took these pictures, I didn't know if they were
famous buildings or not...but my wife subsequently purchased a copy of Berlin: New Architecture by Michael Imhof Verlag, and I have noticed that quite a few of the buildings I photographed are indeed in his book, and in many instances, I have identified them, and the architects, etc. When I have more time, I'll try and identify the others. Until then....
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I loved this building...it's very much my aesthetic, and subsequently learned it was designed by Pei, Cobb, Freed and Partners New York 1992-96. I also subsequently discovered it looked really good at night! |

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This is where you arrive in Berlin if you come by train. It's the 'new' train station, designed by gmp von Gerkan, Marg & Partner of Hamburg 1996-2006. It's the biggest station within the European high-speed railway network. |
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The Galleries Lafayette by that famous French architect...you know who |
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This building was a gift from the USA. It fell down, but the Germans repaired it. |
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One of many examples of the blending of old and new |
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As noted before, this is not a building...it's just vinyl on metal poles... |
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here's a detail. I suspect many people don't even notice it's not a real building |
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I've included this just to show that there are some ugly new buildings in Berlin. Sadly, this one reminds me of a number of Vancouver buildings |
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the magnificent Sony Centre |
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One of many examples of older buildings being encased in glass...something I thought might work for the Vancouver Art Gallery |
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