The Bank of China Tower is striking against the Hong Kong skyline, it features complex geometry and many tessellated triangles with variation between each when examined vertically. It also features huge glass curtain walls. Construction began in 1985 and was completed in 1990. It was the first super-skyscraper outside of the US, and is currently one of the tallest skyscrapers in Hong Kong. I really like this building and it looks fantastic at sunset because of the borders between and the reflection it gives off. This is a work that I think exemplifies Pei’s form of embellished International Style. It is modern, but also plays with shapes in a way that draws the eye to various aspects of the design.

The characteristic steeple of the North Christian Church, created by architect Eero Saarinen, was intended to bring back a more traditional style of cathedral, while implementing hints of modern architecture. There were many rooms underground, such as a school and auditorium, while the only above ground visible area was the sanctuary in order to signify its importance.

Still to this day one of the most recognizable buildings in Chicago, the Sullivan Center was completed back in 1903. The building plans were drawn up after the Chicago Great Fire of 1871 displaced a pair of merchants. Unsatisfied by their current arrangements, they approached Sullivan to design and build them a giant skyscraper. Sullivan designed a massive steel-framed building that had large bay windows along the first floor to give stores the ability to display to pedestrians. The Sullivan Center became a National Landmark in 1975 and in 2013, Target moved in and opened its first store in Chicago.

An iconic landmark in the city of St. Louis, and the tallest manmade landmark in the United States, the Gateway Arch was created by architect Eero Saarinen. It creates a powerful impression on anyone who views it, and also a very recognizable skyline. It was built relating to St. Louis’s involvement in westward expansion.

This is somewhere I feel like I always have to stop by while I’m in downtown Nashville. The simple design of the front wall and hanging red sign make me feel welcomed, and create a casual atmosphere. I definitely associate this place with music, good food, and fun times spent with friends.

Perhaps Pei’s most famous work, The Louvre Museum is the world’s largest art museum. Pei designed the pyramid that was annexed onto the entrance of the museum (which was a former palace originally) and completed the structure in 1989. The pyramid was meant to allow natural light into the entrance which is a subterranean courtyard. At the time, plans for the pyramid were controversial among both the administration and the public. However, as evidenced today it is one of the most recognized and popular structures and represents Pei’s iconic use of both geometric shapes and use of materials. This is my favorite design of Pei’s and the glass makes it very beautiful, particularly against the surrounding cityscape.

This is the school I went to for middle and high school, and was also my family’s church when I was young. This is where so much of my childhood happened, and I feel mixed feelings towards it. It reminds me of so many memories, and the flowing architecture with careful landscaping creates a relaxing atmosphere, however I still associate it with many of the stresses of school and organized, strict religion.

This was a very cozy cafe I used to frequent near the University of Oklahoma campus. The well-lit and spacious atmosphere made it very easy to relax, and the smell of roasting coffee was also oddly soothing and made me always feel welcome. It was a gathering place for my friends and I to catch up, and a great reading nook on a chilly, rainy day. I’m very sad that they closed down, as it was a very unique place to go.

One of Louis Sullivan’s best-known buildings, the Auditorium Building in Chicago was completed in 1889. At the time of its completion, the Auditorium Building was the largest building in the United States and the tallest building in Chicago. In 1891, the Chicago Orchestra debuted and called the Auditorium home until 1904. During the Great Depression, the Auditorium actually had to close and remained closed until 1941 when it was taken over by the city of Chicago to be used as a World War II center. In 1967, the Auditorium reopened and served as a rock venue for the next decade or so. In 1975, the USDI declared it a National Historic Landmark. Today, the Auditorium serves as an entertainment venue, with the NFL holding the 2015 NFL draft there.

This building is notorious for being the ugly, plain building on campus and has earned the nickname “the blender”. It is where many students take math and science classes, and stresses me out when I see it because I associate it with chemistry exams. However, now that I have not visited it in a while, I have a feeling of nostalgia towards it and recall the times I’ve gone to classes with my friends there.