The world is home to some truly stunning architecture; from modern masterpieces to ancient grand cathedrals. With amazing interiors, stained glass windows and tiled floors, we can sometimes forget to look up at the roof a building, but there’s plenty of awe-inspiring architecture and design to be found up in the sky too. From grand palaces to modern glass designs and even a suburban house, see below for just a few of the most amazing roofs to be found around the world.
The Grand Palace, Thailand
Situated in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand’s Grand Palace has been home to the Kings of Siam since its construction in 1782. The brightly coloured roofs have tips and edges painted in gold, which can be seen by visitors for miles around, and the palace remains one of Thailand’s most popular tourist spots.
Reichstag Building, Germany
The glass dome roof of the Reichstag is a spectacular stand out from the rest of the stone building, and the roof terrace and dome offers visitors amazing 360 degree views across Berlin. The roof dome also offers views of the main parliament debating chamber below, and a large sun shield tracks the sun’s movement electronically, blocking strong rays which would dazzle people below.
Fukuoka Prefectural International Hall, Japan
Designed by architect Emilio Ambasz, this government building has planted vegetation on all stepped roof terraces on the side of the building, vastly maximising the city’s green space. The building houses an exhibition hall, museum, theatre, and an impressive 600,000 square feet of government and private offices.
Taj Mahal, India
Commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1632, the Taj Mahal was built as a memorial to Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The iconic white building is topped with a marble roof dome which stands at nearly 35 metres high. The dome is finished with an intricate lotus design, and four smaller domes surround it at each corner.
The Headington Shark, Oxford
This house in Oxfordshire looks like any other normal terraced house – if it wasn’t for the giant fiberglass shark sculpture sticking out of the roof. Officially titled ‘Untitled 1986’, the shark was created by sculptor John Buckley, and appeared in the August of that same year. The sculpture is said to be a protest against war and disaster, and the property is currently available for rent as an Air B&B.
All roofs need looking after, whether they’re on an ordinary terraced house or one of the amazing roofs above. If you’re after professional roofing services in Oxford, get in touch with James Dunn Roofing. We offer roof repairs and maintenance for both domestic and commercial properties, chimney repairs, fascias and guttering, roof window installation and much more. For more information or to discuss your requirements, give us a call today or visit the website.