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In today’s world, it feels like there’s hardly a line between creating something extraordinary and ending up with a complete eyesore. Even the most talented architects, with all their noble intentions, can sometimes miss the mark and create buildings that leave us scratching our heads in disbelief. And once those architectural failures are out there, there’s no hiding from them – they’re forever etched onto the list of the world’s ugliest structures.
Back in 1988, the architect behind this project actually snagged a top prize at Japan’s fancy International Design Competition for its design. Designed by Watanabe Sei, the Aoyama Technical College building is a prime example of Japanese post-modern architecture. Yet, we consider it the ugliest building in the world, based on personal opinions and Internet sentiment.
Year of construction: 1997
This skyscraper in New York City has always puzzled visitors. Tourists are captivated by its lack of windows. But those who’ve been inside claim they could actually see the Brooklyn Bridge from there.
Year of construction: 1975
This place has three halls, and they can seat about 2500 people altogether. It’s one of the UK’s top theaters, right in London’s Lambeth district, on the South Bank. But despite its cultural cred, people mostly chat about its ugliness, which really makes it stand out.
Year of construction: 1976
It only took 292 days to build, which is pretty quick for a project of this size. Some people reckon that if Torre Velasca stood in New York, it would get a lot more appreciation. Despite its less-than-appealing appearance at first glance, this concrete giant is now home to some of Milan’s swankiest fashion boutiques.
Year of construction: 1956-1957
Word on the street is, the architect got inspired by watching his son play with one of those popular children’s construction sets. And those shiny shapes on the side? They’re just for looks, believe it or not. Now, whether you think this place is a real stunner or one of the ugliest buildings on the planet, that’s up to you to decide.
Year of construction: 2013
Even a library, the heart of culture, can end up being considered one of the ugliest buildings in the world. But, despite its less-than-stellar appearance, the Geisel is California’s main university library and a big deal at the University of San Diego. People from all over study its peculiar architecture.
Year of construction: 1970
People call this building the Elephant Tower because it looks just like an elephant. It’s a mixed-use building right in the heart of one of Bangkok’s busiest districts. Inside, you’ll find offices, apartments, shops, a bank, and even a post office.
Year of construction: 1991
See that black-and-white box up there? It’s not just for show – it links up the building with what’s underneath. This place is part of the Ontario College of Art and Design, tucked away on a quiet side street. It stirred up quite the debate with its funky design. Some folks think it’s groundbreaking, while others believe it’s one of the ugliest buildings in the world.
Year of construction: 2004
Word has it this building cost a staggering 2 billion dollars. But despite the hefty price tag, the Antilia house is actually on the list of the world’s ugliest skyscrapers. Architects Perkins & Will got a lot of criticism for this project. People were upset about its high cost and thought it was disrespectful to India’s poor.
Year of construction: 2000s
Back in 1974, the FBI headquarters, known as the J. Edgar Hoover Building, cost a whopping $126 million to build, making it the priciest government building at the time. At first, it was seen as stylish, representing a powerful government agency. But by 2006, the American Institute of Architects called it a “swaggering bully,” saying it was awkward and rude.
Year of construction: 1974
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