Architectural marvels that defy gravity

Mukesh Bhatia

Architecture can create awe-struck structures with their volumes and hierarchies, designed to make a bold statement. These structures defy gravity, with mesmerising forms and captivating fusions, redefining the contemporary landscape. From cantilevered structures to floating forms, modern structures are the epitome of forms defying the essence of gravity. These iconic marvels shape the skyline and redefine the limits of human achievement. In this article, Ar. Mukesh Bhatia, Director of SSB Associates, explores some architectural marvels that defy gravity.

The Shanghai World Financial Center
The Shanghai World Financial Center is a masterpiece of modern engineering that seems to defy gravity. The massive skyscraper stands out for its towering height and the rectangular aperture at its summit. A striking trapezoidal hole at its peak reduces wind pressure on the structure. But more than just an engineering solution, the open design adds a unique visual element, making the building appear lighter. The skywalk at the top of the aperture allows visitors to experience the sensation of walking on air, with nothing but the city of Shanghai beneath their feet.

The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
The Marina Bay Sands complex is a visually stunning engineering feat in the world. Perched atop three 55-story towers, the SkyPark defies gravity by stretching 340 meters across the skyline. What makes it extraordinary is the park, with its infinity pool, lush gardens, and observation decks. The gravity-defying structure is a fusion of balance and precision, relying on advanced engineering to remain structurally sound. The result is an awe-inspiring blend of architecture and natural scenery.

The Dancing House
The Dancing House located in Prague evokes fluidity in the urban landscape. This building stands as a contrast to its traditional Baroque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau neighbours. The structure gives the illusion of movement, with its curved facade making it appear in a graceful dance. This gravity-defying effect is further emphasised by the building’s asymmetrical windows, which break the traditional grid-like pattern, adding to the illusion of motion.

Cube Houses
The Rotterdam residential building complex known as the Cube Houses is shaped like a cube and is angled inward by about 45 degrees. With each triangle roof symbolising a treetop, the building has the appearance of an abstract forest. The initiative aims to revitalise the city core by putting more of an emphasis on residential dwellings than on businesses. Every cube has three levels: a sun lounge at the top, bedrooms in the middle, and a living area at the bottom. The cubes are made up of hexagon-shaped pylons supporting structural timber-frame skeletons that are positioned on the floor’s margins.

With advancements in technology and design, the line between forms and gravity blurs! As the boundaries of engineering expand, we can only imagine what gravity-defying wonders the future holds!

Mukesh Bhaita is an architect & Managing Director, SSB Architects