Organic architecture - 11 best buildings
The Fondation Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé
Location: Paris, France
Architect: Renzo Piano
Completed: 2014
Photo: Paul Raftery
Despite its building height restrictions, Paris actually has pretty good form when it comes to allowing bold architectural statements that mix traditional and modern architecture - The Louvre Pyramid, for example.
Carrying on this tradition is architect Renzo Piano's unorthodox building designed to house the Fondation Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé, which also happens to be one of the best recent examples of organic architecture.
Photo: Paul Raftery
Described by Renzo Piano's firm as an 'organic creature', the slug shaped new building rises up cheekily above the traditional 19th century neoclassical facade which contains its entrance, so that it can be seen (but only just), from the street, before sloping down into the a former courtyard space behind.
Photo: Paul Raftery
According to Renzo Piano building Workshop, 'The peculiar design of this building is determined by the site's major limits and requirements... While respecting the distances with the surrounding buildings, the building improves the neighbour's access to natural light and air.'
Photo: Paul Raftery