Located in Hamburg, Germany, the Elbphilharmonie
The unusual glass facade was built on top of an existing building. Originally, it was used as a warehouse to receive shipments such as bags of cocoa beans.
The facade is composed of 1,100 unique pieces. Some of the windows have been curved inward or outward. Depending on the lighting and time of day it can appear to shimmer or change colors.
The architect’s goal was to make the building accessible for all. One way they achieve that is through mixed-use space. Besides the Philharmonic, it also includes restaurants, a terrace with views of the city and harbor, apartments, and a five-star hotel.
On entry, visitors travel
The Grand Hall can seat 2,100. It features an organ with pipes that rise 3 floors. It can be played both at the keyboard as well as an electronic console located on the stage.
If Hamburg can make music from a former warehouse, what is possible for the rest of the world?
Journey onward to another unique piece of German architecture here, or discover another crazy building here.