National Aquatics Center, Beijing

Better known as "The Water Cube", The National Aquatics Center located in Beijing was designed by Sydney-based PTW Architects.

The aquarium-like stadium features a unique design, with the exterior boasting distinctive blue cushions. The stadium is also in the shape of a square, designed to create a "yin and yang of the Beijing Olympics" when looked upon next to the adjacent circular National Stadium.

The National Aquatics Center has hosted inspiring achievements with a total of 42 gold medals being won inside the Water Cube for swimming, diving and synchronised swimming during the Olympic Games. A quarter of the venue was retained for competition purposes while the rest now is enjoyed for leisure purposes.

Image provided by National Aquatics Center