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01.10.2014 Opinion

Top Ten Most Extravagant Buildings

By Lamudi Contributor
Top Ten Most Extravagant Buildings
01.10.2014 LISTEN

Flamboyant architecture has always been a source of awe around the world, but where are the most extravagant buildings today? The world around us is rapidly changing every day. Technology is becoming smaller, transportation is getting faster, and our buildings taller. With a fast-growing population, architects are constantly faced with new challenges to utilize the small, unpaved space that remains.

Global property portal Lamudi has compiled an exciting list of the 10 most extravagant buildings that are making our skylines just a bit more astonishing every day.

1) Marina Bay Sands - Singapore, Republic of Singapore

When it comes to extravaganza, the city state of Singapore is definitely a forerunner. Although it is rather small, it is known for its lavish cuisines and architecture. Not surprisingly, Singapore is home to the most expensive building in the world (to date). The Marina Bay Sands' observation deck on the 57th floor overlooks the harbour and provides its guests with a staggering infinity pool, 200m above ground. The cost for the two elaborate hotel towers totaled approximately USD six billion and it is currently ranked sixth largest in Asia.

2) One World Trade Center or Freedom Tower - New York City, USA

The United States is next in line when it comes to the most extravagant buildings in the world. The recently rebuilt One World Trade Center or as it is colloquially referred to, the Freedom Tower in New York City, cost around USD 3.8 Billion and is an astounding 546m high. It hosts 104 floors and 71 elevators and has added a new touch to the previously devastated skyline of Lower Manhattan. It is currently the tallest building in New York and the Western Hemisphere and an inspirational sight for anyone who passes by.

3) Bank of China Tower - Hong Kong, China
The Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong, which was completed in 1990, is currently the 14th tallest building in Asia and the 24th tallest building worldwide. With a cost of USD 2.09 billion, it is also one of the most expensive buildings ever to have been built. The majestic skyscraper rises high above the roofs of Hong Kong and dominates the tightly spaced skyline.

4) Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom
Next up is Wembley Stadium in London, which was reopened in 2007 after the previous stadium was demolished in 2003. It is the second largest stadium in Europe and seats approximately 90,000 fans. The total cost of the reconstruction amounted to USD 1.84 billion, making it one of the most expensive buildings in the world. Although its primary use is to host sporting events, Wembley Stadium is also a frequent stage for musicians such as Madonna and U2.

5) Cidade das Artes - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The most expensive building in Latin America currently sits in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and serves as a cultural center and music hall. Also referred to as the City of Arts, the building opened its doors in 2013 and cost approximately USD 283.3 million to construct. It is the largest of its kind in South America and can count itself to one of the most exceptional concert halls in the world.

6) Burj al Arab - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Located on its own artificial island, the Burj al Arab is one of the tallest hotels in the world. Designed by architect Tom Wright, the extravagant hotel takes the shape of an Arabian ship, and offers a panoramic view of Dubai. Deemed the world's first seven star hotel, luxury infiltrates every inch of this stunning building, which boasts its own yacht charter, helicopter and aquarium.

7) Corinthia Bab Africa Hotel - Tripoli, Libya
The Corinthia Bab Africa Hotel in the heart of Tripoli is a five star hotel and the most expensive construction on the continent of Africa. The skyscraper opened its doors in 2003 and cost a total of USD 135 million. The hotel's two dramatic towers define the skyline of North Africa's cosmopolitan city of Tripoli and invites its guests to enjoy a couple of extravagant nights of luxury.

8) Hilton Durban - Durban, South Africa
The Hilton Durban is the second most expensive construction in Africa. Located close to the international convention center in Durban, South Africa, the five star hotel offers its guests nothing short of luxury and awe inspiring views. The construction costs amounted to USD 61 million and has established itself as a landmark in the city. The Hilton attracts travelers from all around the globe and prides itself on its excellent service.

9) Taipei 101 - Taipei, Taiwan
Although not the most expensive building around, the Taipei 101 in Taiwan can consider itself quite extravagant. Formerly known as the Taipei World Financial Center, the 509 meter high skyscraper was ranked tallest in the world until 2004, when it was outranked by one of Dubai's new constructions. The structure houses 106 floors, including five underground, making it one of the most magnificent towers in the world.

10) Gran Torre Santiago - Santiago de Chile
Latin America's tallest construction is currently in Santiago de Chile and is known as the Gran Torre Santiago. With an impressive 300m, it can house up to 40,000 people and is home to a five storey mall, two 41 storey high office towers, and two hotels. The building opened its doors in 2014, making it the youngest of the list, however it is nothing short of extravagant.

These exciting and awe inspiring man-made constructions make the world a more astonishing place to travel every day. Our skylines are evolving rapidly and the future will surely hold even more dramatic buildings.

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