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The 10 most beautiful libraries around the world

<p>Whether you’re a bookworm or just a lover of fine architecture, these gorgeous libraries are sure to fill you with wanderlust. Here are 10 of the most stunning libraries around the world.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Clementinum in Prague, Czech Republic</strong> – built in 1722, the Baroque library hall is adorned with elaborate frescoes and houses The National Library of the Czech Republic.</li> <li><strong>Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., USA</strong> – established in 1800 and boasting over 160,000,000 items on catalogue, the Library of Congress has the largest collection in the world.</li> <li><strong>Marciana Library in Venice, Italy</strong> – a pinnacle of Renaissance architecture, this stunning library took 50 years to build after construction began in 1537.</li> <li><strong>Trinity College Old Library in Dublin, Ireland</strong> – the grand Long Room is the most iconic part of this historic library, founded in 1592.</li> <li><strong>Bodleian Library at Oxford University, England</strong> – established in 1602, this library is the second largest in Britain and was used as a filming location in the first two Harry Potter films.</li> <li><strong>Biblioteca Joanina in Coimbra, Portugal</strong> – another Baroque masterpiece built in 1717, this library is known for its elaborate decorative elements.</li> <li><strong>Austrian National Library in Vienna, Austria</strong> – built in 1723, this incredible library was once the palace library, and once you see in side you won’t be surprised to hear of its royal past.</li> <li><strong>The Library of El Escorial in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Spain</strong> – this royal library is spectacularly adorned in gold and classic frescoes and is nestled in the magnificent royal site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.</li> <li><strong>Abbey Library in St. Gallen, Switzerland</strong> – at over 1,000 years old, this World Heritage site is designed in the Rococo style and survived the devastating fire in 937 which destroyed the Abbey.</li> <li><strong>Sainte-Geneviève Library in Paris, France</strong> – designed nearly 200 years ago, the grand glass and iron reading room is one of the most iconic libraries in France.</li> </ol> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Books

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Brutalism is back with a luxury twist

<p dir="ltr">Known for bold lines, stark colours and minimalist designs, brutalism has come back into the fore, this time with some added luxury.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though the hallmarks of the controversial architectural trend remain - think clean lines, a colour scheme featuring grey, and concrete as a material of choice - this new iteration emphases beauty and comfort.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We call this look Brutal Beauty - it celebrates the popular architectural and interior aesthetic of Brutalism, but in a more inviting and appealing way," Heather Nette King, an interior stylist and style ambassador for Carpet Court, explains.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Designers and architects are putting a contemporary spin on the Brutalist aesthetic by using raw concrete in new and inventive ways – think kitchen islands, furniture, benchtops, cabinetry and even home accessories. And they’re introducing contrasting materials, such as beautiful, textured fabrics and luxurious metallics, to add softness and elegance. </p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2d627624-7fff-1ab1-b9c5-23ce5303706d"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s a celebration of contrasts, resulting in homes that speak of minimalism, yet feel refined, sophisticated and supremely comfortable."</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/08/brutal-beauty1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The revived trend of Brutalism, known as Brutal Beauty, features raw concrete, minimalist design, and luxurious accents. Image: Carpet Court</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Using raw concrete as a primary design element has surged in recent years according to King, appearing in new builds and extensions across the country.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It speaks of strength, authenticity and our growing desire to live more simply – the idea of building once and building well," she adds.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As a look, Brutal Beauty works particularly well in new dwellings or contemporary renovations where architectural ornamentation is quite minimal."</p> <p dir="ltr">If you're thinking of incorporating some aspects of Brutal Beauty into your home, Nette King has four top tips to help you out.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Rein in the colours</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">When it comes to Brutalism and colour, a minimal selection is best. Nette King recommends setting the mood of your home with layers and light and dark greys across your flooring and upholstery, accented with bold black art and accessories.</p> <p dir="ltr">To keep your spaces feeling open and bright, she suggests using white on your walls and ceilings.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Opt for furniture with strong, sculptured lines</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-93a56779-7fff-5bc2-9187-741697291df2"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Brutalism is all about defined lines and minimalism, which you can embrace with minimalist seating and coffee and dining tables with simple, curved lines.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/08/brutal-beauty2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Bold artworks, a limited colour palette and furniture with simple, curved lines are hallmarks of Brutal Beauty. Image: Carpet Court</em></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Comfort is key</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Unlike its predecessor, luxury and comfort are key considerations. Nette King suggests furnishing your spaces with deep-seated sofas, upholstered bedheads and tactile bedlinen to emphasise the sense of luxury.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Add warmth with timber</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">With critics of Brutalism describing its limited colour scheme as cold, selecting cabinetry or furniture featuring rich timber tones, such as walnut, can help you avoid this and create some cosiness in your home.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7184a3fb-7fff-abfd-6a92-f9e434229287"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Carpet Court</em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

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Technology has made buildings less climate-friendly: but we can look back in time for solutions

<p>It’s been <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/10/04/new-technology-answer-climate-change-not-targets/">claimed</a> that technology is the answer to the climate crisis. By eventually separating economic growth from its effects on the environment through improving energy efficiency, the argument runs, better technology promises to prevent <a href="https://theconversation.com/theres-no-end-to-the-damage-humans-can-wreak-on-the-climate-this-is-how-bad-its-likely-to-get-166031">catastrophic</a> global warming.</p> <p>But among the many things that this argument fails to consider is the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13563467.2019.1598964">reality</a> that new technology has often encouraged extravagant forms of consumption: from private cars and planes to kitchens full of appliances and air conditioning in countries with mild climates.</p> <p>Technology has also caused what’s called the “<a href="https://esrc.ukri.org/about-us/50-years-of-esrc/50-achievements/the-rebound-effect/">rebound effect</a>”: where improving energy efficiency leads to cheaper energy and therefore higher rates of energy consumption. For example, buying a more fuel-efficient car will reduce your average fuel cost per trip and thus is likely to lead to more trips, taking away at least some of your anticipated energy savings.</p> <p>A similar trend appears in architecture, where advances in artificial cooling, heating and computer-aided design have – rather than creating more efficient designs – actually introduced <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/667480/from-waste-to-resource-productivity-evidence-case-studies.pdf">wasteful</a> building styles.</p> <p>In <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/2093761X.2016.1237397">my work</a>, I call this phenomenon the “architectural rebound effect”. This effect becomes especially clear when we look at how <a href="https://www.dezeen.com/tag/facades/">building façades</a> (the “skin” that covers buildings) have evolved over the past 100 years.</p> <h2>Façade failures</h2> <p>The <a href="https://cris.brighton.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/379433/CdR+Final+Diaz+%26+Southall+Published+Version.pdf">Cité de Refuge</a> residential building in Paris, designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in 1933, boasts one of the earliest examples of a façade made entirely out of glass. But with no windows or air conditioning, its summer indoor temperatures reached up to <a href="https://lmdvlugtdml.wordpress.com/home/lmd-words/miscellaneous-writings-and-publications/le-corbusiers-cite-de-refuge-historical-technological-performance-of-the-air-exacte/">33°C</a> – making it a “<a href="https://cris.brighton.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/379433/CdR+Final+Diaz+%26+Southall+Published+Version.pdf">notable failure</a>” in architecture.</p> <p>To fix this, the façade was fitted with external shading devices and about a third of its glass was made opaque. This strategy was mostly effective: computer simulations have shown that the upgraded design reduced indoor summer temperatures to <a href="https://cris.brighton.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/379433/CdR+Final+Diaz+%26+Southall+Published+Version.pdf">below 25°C</a>.</p> <p>From the 1950s, fully glazed façades without shading devices began to dominate city skylines thanks to increasingly efficient and cheap <a href="https://archive.curbed.com/2017/5/9/15583550/air-conditioning-architecture-skyscraper-wright-lever-house">air-conditioning systems</a> that allowed temperatures inside these buildings to be regulated.</p> <p>But these new glass boxes came with their own set of environmental problems. For instance, <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13602360903119405">research</a> has shown that office buildings built in the Manhattan borough of New York between 1965 and 1969 consumed twice as much energy per unit floor area than buildings erected between 1950 and 1954.</p> <p>One reason for this is probably the difference in the window-to-wall ratio between these groups of buildings. While the later buildings had a ratio between 53% and 72%, the earlier buildings’ ratio sat between 23% to 32%. This means that more heat was allowed into and out of the former group of buildings during summer and winter, increasing their need for artificial cooling and heating.</p> <p><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/437794/original/file-20211215-21-f60i8n.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="An apartment building with red, yellow and blue external features" /> <span class="caption">The Cité de Refuge after its refurbishment, with external shades and opaque glass.</span> <span class="attribution"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cit%C3%A9_de_Refuge.jpg" class="source">IanTomFerry/Wikimedia</a></span></p> <p>Another problem with fully glazed façades is the excessive glare they cause inside buildings, which means that indoor blinds must be pulled down most of the time. This blocks occupants’ views to the outside and increases reliance on artificial lighting, increasing energy consumption even further.</p> <p>These problems with fully glazed façades still plague buildings today. Now, parametrically designed shading devices are often used as a solution. Unfortunately, these tend to block outdoor views for those working inside, while keeping the need for <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0038092X12002046">artificial light</a>.</p> <h2>Limiting freedoms</h2> <p>Should we prevent architects from exercising their aesthetic freedom in designing these extravagant buildings that harm our planet? One solution could be to set a maximum limit on the amount of energy a building is allowed to consume. This would require architects to use <a href="https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/sustainable-architecture/a3992-what-are-passive-design-strategies/">passive design strategies</a> – techniques that enable humans to live in challenging climates without expending unnecessary energy.</p> <p>For example, by the year 400 BC, Persians had devised an ingenious way to <a href="http://jfa.arch.metu.edu.tr/archive/0258-5316/2012/cilt29/sayi_2/223-234.pdf">store ice</a> during hot summer months using ice pits called “yakhchals”. These were vaulted reservoirs with a height of up to 15 metres and a depth of approximately six metres.</p> <p>By allowing hot air to exit through an opening at the top of the reservoir and burying ice deep in the earth, the base of the yakhchal – and the ice inside – would <a href="https://www.maxfordham.com/research-innovation/the-physics-of-freezing-at-the-iranian-yakhchal/">remain cold</a> throughout the summer.</p> <p>An example from the modern era is the <a href="http://thegreentreefoundation.org/energy_concious_building/case_studies.pdf">Inspector General of Police Complex</a> building in Gulbarga, India, which uses a wind tower fitted with water sprays to create a comfortable environment in a hot and humid climate. Droplets from the sprays absorb heat from incoming air, reducing the air’s temperature by up to 13°C before it enters the building.</p> <p>It’s vital to first decide how best to measure buildings’ maximum energy limit. In current building energy rating schemes, “<a href="https://aiacalifornia.org/energy-use-intensity-eui/">energy use intensity</a>” is often used, which refers to the amount of energy consumed per unit of floor area.</p> <p><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/437800/original/file-20211215-25-1v88ihf.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="A brick building in the desert" /> <span class="caption">This yakhchal in Iran was used to keep ice cool.</span> <span class="attribution"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Iran_desert,_yakh-chal_(%D9%89%D8%AE_%DA%86%D8%A7%D9%84_en_persan)_,_goat_herd_-_glaci%C3%A8re,_troupeau_de_ch%C3%A8vres_(9261276542).jpg" class="source">Jeanne Menj/Wikimedia</a></span></p> <p>But a flaw of this metric is that it allows overly large, grandiose buildings to be certified as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUuVoMCVwQo&amp;ab_channel=InternationalPassiveHouseAssociation">low energy</a>. A more appropriate metric could focus on energy consumed in relation to the number of people using a building – in other words, a building’s energy use per person.</p> <h2>Making masterpieces</h2> <p>A possible objection is that this could result in “boring” buildings with no aesthetic appeal. In this case, we could encourage architects to express their creativity through building structures not designed to house people and therefore require little to no operational energy to run.</p> <p>This would considerably reduce the environmental impact of such architectural masterpieces. On average, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378778810001696">80% to 90%</a> of a building’s carbon emissions arise from operating it, not building it.</p> <p>What’s more, many iconic buildings have failed to function as they were designed to. Mies von der Rohe’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2021/aug/30/curse-mies-van-der-rohe-puddle-strewn-gallery-david-chipperfield-berlin-national">New National Gallery</a> in Berlin suffered from cracking windows and heavy condensation, while Frank Gehry’s MIT-based <a href="https://www.wired.com/2007/11/mit-sues-frank/">Stata Centre</a> in Massachusetts has leaky roofs and excessive mould. These buildings have not been demolished, however, but left standing as examples of top-quality design.</p> <p>Perhaps if architects channelled their desire for daring aesthetic into sculpture-like structures rather than buildings designed for habitation, they could continue to keep pushing the limits of design without making the planet pay.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/169551/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><span><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/bashar-al-shawa-1263266">Bashar Al Shawa</a>, PhD Student in Architecture, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bath-1325">University of Bath</a></em></span></p> <p>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/technology-has-made-buildings-less-climate-friendly-but-we-can-look-back-in-time-for-solutions-169551">original article</a>.</p> <p><em>Image: Micuradu/Flickr</em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

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Natalie Portman cosying up in beautiful Hunter Valley architectural wonder

<p>Reports have claimed A-lister actress Natalie Portman has been seen wondering through the picturesque wine region of Hunter Valley.</p> <p><em>The Post<span> </span></em>claimed the 39-year-old and her husband, Benjamin Millepied, were seen standing in ankle-high grass as they peered into the blue-roofed brick, stone and wood getaway home in the Hunter Valley.</p> <p>Their hour-long tour appeared to be guided by the famed architect Glenn Marcus Murcutt, who is the only Australian to win the Pritzker Architecture Prize (2002).</p> <p>His modern designs focus on creating living spaces that have low impacts on the environment and priorities indoor-outdoor living.</p> <p>The house is a sight to see, and one that amplifies his environmental ethos, with its horizontal lines and perfect blend of wood and glass.</p> <p>The house appears to have hardly any protection from the elements, but seamlessly creates the perfect balance between integrated design and environmentally friendly.</p> <p>The actress is rumoured to be cosying up into the stunning retreat which offers mountains as a staggering backdrop behind the house.</p> <p>“Layering and changeability: this is the key, the combination that is worked into most of my buildings. Occupying one of these buildings is like sailing a yacht; you modify and manipulate its form and skin, according to seasonal conditions and natural elements, and work with these to maximise the performance of the building,” said Murcutt in 1996.</p> <p>Natalie Portman and her husband have been married since 2012 and have two children, Amalia and Aleph.</p> <p>Portman is in Australia filming her role as Jane Foster in the anticipated Marvel movie “Thor: Love and Thunder.”</p>

Real Estate

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Exploring the art and architecture of Sydney’s Ultimo

<p><em><strong>Robyn Kennedy loves to explore and photograph Sydney and surrounds. Her blog <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/" target="_blank">Life Out &amp; About</a></span> has become a passion, sharing ideas for outings in and around Sydney - charming gardens, bush walks, art galleries and inspiring places to eat!</strong></em></p> <p>An amazing transformation has taken place in the Ultimo area over the last 20 years. From derelict warehouses and industrial sites to a vibrant community of character cafes, restored terraces, art galleries and ‘out there’ Frank Gehry architecture! Also, close by in Chippendale is the well known White Rabbit Gallery, housing the largest and most significant collection of contemporary Chinese art.</p> <p><strong>Where:</strong> Sydney Inner City –2km SW of CBD |<strong> Allow: </strong>1/2 day<br /> <strong>Getting there:</strong> Buses – Trains 10 mins. walk from Central Station<br /> <strong>Also see:</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/chinese-garden/" target="_blank">Chinese Gardens of Friendship</a></strong></span>, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/sydney-cbd-architecture-art/" target="_blank">Sydney CBD</a></strong></span></p> <p><strong>What to See &amp; Do</strong></p> <p>Ultimo sits neatly between Chinatown to the east and Glebe village to the west, with it’s main thoroughfare Harris St connecting it to the character suburb of Pyrmont to the North. Being surrounded by ‘old Sydney’ you will find plenty to explore. Whenever we visit the Ultimo area we find something new, it’s the wandering and discovering that make an outing to this area such fun. Here are a few suggestions for places to visit…</p> <p><strong>1. Dr Chau Chak Wing Building – UTS</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="573" height="211" src="https://i2.wp.com/www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Dr-Chau-Chak-Wing-Building-at-UTS.jpg?resize=800%2C296&amp;ssl=1" alt="Dr Chau Chak Wing Building at UTS - Architect Frank Gehry" class="wp-image-424 size-full"/></p> <p style="text-align: center;" align="center"><em>Ultimo – Dr Chau Chak Wing Building at UTS – Architect Frank Gehry – distorted reflections</em></p> <p>Just 10 minutes walk from Central Station and you can start your outing at the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.uts.edu.au/partners-and-community/initiatives/city-campus-master-plan/completed-projects/dr-chau-chak-wing" target="_blank">Dr Chau Chak Wing Building at UTS</a></strong></span>, a Frank Gehry special. We visited during the UTS holiday time, so were fortunate to have the place pretty much to ourselves.</p> <p>The famous architect <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Gehry" target="_blank">Frank Gehry</a></strong></span> has designed this extraordinary warped complex… it all started with a scribble on a napkin! Constructed of brick and glass, yet all buckled and twisted. The complex is often likened to a squashed paper bag I find it bold and inspiring with it’s wonky brickwork and the many angled glass windows capturing the surrounding city scape.</p> <p>The organic interior staircase constructed of highly polished stainless steel creates amazing distorted reflections, and I love reflections!  With a stroke of luck we met an enthusiastic employee who was keen to give us a spontaneous tour of the interior, seeing places that most would not have access to.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="586" height="216" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Dr-Chau-Chak-Wing-Building-at-UTS-internal.jpg?resize=800%2C296&amp;ssl=1" alt="Dr Chau Chak Wing Building at UTS - Frank Gehry" class="size-full wp-image-450"/></p> <p style="text-align: center;" align="center"><em>Ultimo – Dr Chau Chak Wing Building at UTS – Architect Frank Gehry</em></p> <p><strong>2. White Rabbit Gallery</strong></p> <p><img width="512" height="256" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/wp-content/uploads/White-Rabbit-Gallery.jpg?resize=800%2C400&amp;ssl=1" alt="White Rabbit Gallery - exhibition changes every 6 months" class="wp-image-437 size-full" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p align="center"><em>White Rabbit Gallery – exhibition changes every 6 months</em></p> <p>Just a 10 minute walk from the Dr Chau Chak Wing Building in Ultimo, or from Central Station. The <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.whiterabbitcollection.org/" target="_blank">White Rabbit Gallery</a></strong></span> in Chippendale is a must see.  The gallery houses the world’s largest and most significant collection of contemporary Chinese art, it is impressive! I’ve visited a number of times and have always come away excited and inspired with what contemporary Chinese artists are doing.</p> <p>A great place to relax with a cup of tea and snack is the gallery <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.whiterabbitcollection.org/teahouse/" target="_blank">Tea House</a></strong></span>, set in a tranquil street with a delightful display of hanging bird cages. They serve a wide range of Chinese and Taiwanese teas.</p> <p><strong>3. More Ultimo Architecture</strong></p> <p align="center"><img width="577" height="213" src="https://i2.wp.com/www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Ultimo-Brick-Architecture.jpg?resize=800%2C296&amp;ssl=1" alt="Ultimo Brick Affair" class="wp-image-426 size-full"/></p> <p align="center"><em>Ultimo – Brick Affair</em></p> <p align="center"><img width="556" height="205" src="https://i2.wp.com/www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Ultimo-UTS.jpg?resize=800%2C296&amp;ssl=1" alt="Ultimo - UTS Campus" class="wp-image-428 size-full"/></p> <p align="center"><em>Ultimo – UTS Campus</em></p> <p>While you’re in the area it’s well worth exploring all around the UTS complex. There are a number of interesting buildings, not so wonky as Frank Gehry’s, but certainly worth a pic or two.</p> <p><strong>4. Chinese Garden of Friendship</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="567" height="209" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Chinese-Garden-of-Friendship-Teahouse.jpg?resize=800%2C296&amp;ssl=1" class="size-full wp-image-1982"/></p> <p align="center"><em>Chinese Garden of Friendship Tea House</em></p> <p>If you have time the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/chinese-garden/" target="_blank">Chinese Garden of Friendship</a></strong></span> is only 15 minutes walk from UTS or White Rabbit Gallery. Discover a hidden oasis of ornate pavilions, exotic plants, ponds, waterfalls and rocky outcrops.</p> <p><strong>5. Eat &amp; Drink</strong></p> <p align="center"><img width="611" height="225" src="https://i2.wp.com/www.lifeoutandabout.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Glebe-Cafes.jpg?resize=800%2C296&amp;ssl=1" alt="Cafe's on Glebe Pt Road" class="wp-image-448 size-full"/></p> <p align="center"><em>Glebe – Cafe’s on Glebe Pt Road</em></p> <p>Ultimo and Chippendale are surrounded by possibilities for eating and drinking. If you don’t happen to stumble across a little café or restaurant that appeals, head over to the lively village of Glebe… with its many eateries and small bars there will be something to satisfy. For example, on the southern end of Glebe Pt Road, not far from Broadway are the Clipper Café and La Banette Patisserie. At the northern end of Glebe Pt Road is the fabulous <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.glebepointdiner.com.au/" target="_blank">Glebe Point Diner</a></strong></span>.</p> <p>If you fancy something Asian, you’re in the perfect location. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.sydney.com/destinations/sydney/sydney-city/chinatown-and-haymarket" target="_blank">Chinatown</a></strong></span> is only a 10-15 minutes walk from Ultimo and the White Rabbit Gallery.  I love to catch the evening buzz with the soft glow of Chinese lanterns and inviting restaurants.</p>

International Travel

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An architectural marvel on the Mornington Peninsula

<p>In case there wasn’t enough of a reason to visit the Mornington Peninsula, this architectural marvel clad in 13.5 km of flat metal bar is a striking addition to the region!</p> <p>As you can see in the gallery above, it’s really something.</p> <p><a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/11611662/?af=61160407&amp;c=apac_au_over60_metalhouse"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Metalhouse</span></strong></a> is an architectural marvel, easily accommodating 13 people in surrounds that would suit even the most discerning traveller. With a barbecue at one end and a pizza oven at the over you’ll have no problem entertaining.</p> <p>While the distinct design of your accommodation, which features 13.5km of flat metal bar held in place by 36,000 screws, is an attraction in and of itself, you’re not going to be short of things to do. The Mornington Peninsula is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations for its beaches, wineries and outdoor activities and when you’re staying at the Metalhouse you’ll be a prime position to discover everything the beautiful region has to offer.</p> <p>To see pictures of the <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/11611662/?af=61160407&amp;c=apac_au_over60_metalhouse" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Metalhouse</span></strong></a> scroll through the gallery above. Even if you don’t have any holiday plans on the cards, it’s worth it (if only for the daydreaming)!</p> <p>And to book a stay at the Metalhouse or learn more, <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/11611662/?af=61160407&amp;c=apac_au_over60_metalhouse" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">click here</span></strong></a>.</p> <p>Have you ever been to Mornington Peninsula and if so how did you find the experience? What would you recommend to anyone headed there?</p> <p>Let us know in the comments.</p> <p><a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/?af=61160407&amp;c=apac_au_over60_auhomepage" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Whether you want to make money by renting your place or to find affordable accommodation options and stretch your travel budget further, head over to Airbnb now and have a look around.</span></strong></em></a></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/07/train-carriages-converted-into-serene-rural-retreat/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Train carriages converted into serene rural retreat</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/07/100-year-old-converted-log-cabin-in-yarra-valley-cottage/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>100-year-old converted log cabin in Yarra Valley cottage</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/07/cosiest-winter-retreats-in-the-blue-mountains/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Cosiest winter retreats in the Blue Mountains</span></em></strong></a></p>

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Beautiful 100-year-old theatre converted into a bookstore

<p>Previously, we’ve shown you some of the <a href="/entertainment/books/2016/06/the-10-most-beautiful-libraries-around-the-world/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">most stunning libraries</span></strong></a> around the world, and it seems beautiful architecture and books go hand-in-hand. An almost-100-year-old theatre in Buenos Aires has been thoughtfully converted into the most incredible bookstore you’ll ever see.</p> <p>The Grand Splendid Theatre first opened in 1919, before being turned into a cinema and, in 2000, into the El Ateneo Grand Spendid bookshop.</p> <p>Take a look at the stunning store, lovingly restored by architect Fernando Manzone, in the gallery above, and tell us in the comments below, what’s the most stunning piece of architecture you’ve ever seen?</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/06/the-10-most-beautiful-libraries-around-the-world/"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>The 10 most beautiful libraries around the world</em></span></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/07/incredible-footage-shows-wild-weather-lashing-the-us/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Incredible footage shows wild weather lashing the US</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/07/photos-of-fireflies/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">6 awe-inspiring photos of fireflies</span></em></strong></a></p>

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Spain's architectural marvel, La Sagrada Familia, nears completion

<p>Spain's most popular tourist attraction, the basilica of La Sagrada Familia, has entered its final construction phase.</p><p>The Daily Mail reported that the intricate and spectacular cathedral could be finished in the first third of the 21st century.</p><p>Chief architect Jordi Fauli told the Mail the plan to have the towers and most of the church's structure completed in 2026 for the 100th anniversary of architect Antoni Gaudi's death was on track.</p><p>&nbsp;<img width="497" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10389/spain-arcitectural-marvel-one_497x280.jpg" alt="Spain Arcitectural Marvel One" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p><p><em>Image credit:&nbsp;Shutterstock.com&nbsp;/ Mark52&nbsp;</em></p><p>"It's difficult to predict but we can say that it will be completed by 2030, 2032," he said.</p><p>Once complete, the Tower of Jesus Christ, at 172 metres, will make the Sagrada Familia the tallest cathedral in Europe.</p><p>The first stone was laid on March 19, 1882 following the Neo-gothic design drawn up by the architect Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano, the first architect of the Sagrada Familia.</p><p>Visionary architect Antoni Gaudi took over the design of the Sagrada Familia in 1883 until his death on June 10, 1926, due to a traffic accident.</p><p>More than 3 million people visit the basilica each year.</p><p>First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/destinations/europe/73438243/spains-architectural-marvel-la-sagrada-familia-nears-completion" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Stuff.co.nz</strong></span></a>.</p><p><em>Hero image credit: Shutterstock.com /&nbsp;misima</em></p>

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Spain's architectural marvel, La Sagrada Familia, nears completion

<p>Spain's most popular tourist attraction, the basilica of La Sagrada Familia, has entered its final construction phase.</p><p>The Daily Mail reported that the intricate and spectacular cathedral could be finished in the first third of the 21st century.</p><p>Chief architect Jordi Fauli told the Mail the plan to have the towers and most of the church's structure completed in 2026 for the 100th anniversary of architect Antoni Gaudi's death was on track.</p><p>&nbsp;<img width="497" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10389/spain-arcitectural-marvel-one_497x280.jpg" alt="Spain Arcitectural Marvel One" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p><p><em>Image credit:&nbsp;Shutterstock.com&nbsp;/ Mark52&nbsp;</em></p><p>"It's difficult to predict but we can say that it will be completed by 2030, 2032," he said.</p><p>Once complete, the Tower of Jesus Christ, at 172 metres, will make the Sagrada Familia the tallest cathedral in Europe.</p><p>The first stone was laid on March 19, 1882 following the Neo-gothic design drawn up by the architect Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano, the first architect of the Sagrada Familia.</p><p>Visionary architect Antoni Gaudi took over the design of the Sagrada Familia in 1883 until his death on June 10, 1926, due to a traffic accident.</p><p>More than 3 million people visit the basilica each year.</p><p>First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/destinations/europe/73438243/spains-architectural-marvel-la-sagrada-familia-nears-completion" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Stuff.co.nz</strong></span></a>.</p><p><em>Hero image credit: Shutterstock.com /&nbsp;misima</em></p><p><strong>Related links:</strong></p><p><a href="/news/news/2015/10/animals-posing-for-cute-selfies/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Animals posing for selfies are very cute</strong></em></span></a></p><p><a href="/news/news/2015/10/most-beautiful-bookstores/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Inside the most magnificent bookstores imaginable</strong></em></span></a></p><p><a href="/news/news/2015/10/titanic-iceberg-photo-auction/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Photo of Titanic iceberg sells for ridiculous price</strong></em></span></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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5 architectural marvels you have to see

<p>These five architectural marvels aren’t done justice by the photographs you may have seen, and if you can manage it, you should do your best to see them up close.</p><p><img width="500" height="333" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4330/white-temple_500x333.jpg" alt="White Temple (1)"></p><p><strong>1.Wat Rong Khun – Thailand</strong><br> Built over a decade starting in 1997, the White Temple was designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat.</p><p><img width="500" height="333" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4332/pont-alexandre-iii_500x333.jpg" alt="Pont Alexandre III"></p><p><strong>2.Pont Alexandre III – France</strong><br> Considered the most ornate and extravagant bridge in all of Paris, the Pont Alexandre III spans the Seine.</p><p><img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4333/sheikh-zayed_500x334.jpg" alt="Sheikh Zayed"></p><p><strong>3.Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – UAE</strong><br> Construction on the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates began in 1996, and took 11 years.</p><p><img width="498" height="330" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4335/budepest-parliament_498x330.jpg" alt="Budepest Parliament"></p><p><strong>4.Parliament Building, Hungary</strong><br> The tallest building in Budapest, the Hungarian Parliament Building is among Europe’s oldest legislative buildings.</p><p><img width="500" height="333" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4336/santorini_500x333.jpg" alt="Santorini"></p><p><strong>5.Santorini, Greece</strong><br> Santorini’s white buildings built high on its red cliffs are iconic and breathtaking.</p><p><strong>Related links:</strong></p><p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="/news/news/2015/03/siberian-huskies-on-frozen-lake/" target="_blank">These images of Siberian Huskies walking on a frozen lake need to be seen to be believed</a></span></strong></em></p><p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="/news/news/2015/03/mansion-faces-steep-drop/" target="_blank">Is this luxury Texas mansion about to fall off a cliff?</a></span>&nbsp;</strong></em></p><p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="/news/news/2015/03/aurora-australis-australia-and-new-zealand/" target="_blank">Watch this amazing video of Aurora australis lighting up the night sky</a></span></strong></em></p>

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