The Ten Best English Buildings of the 21st Century

By 2100, English buildings might look very different – but in the mean time, find out a little more about Blueprint Magazine’s best buildings of the century so far.

1: Evelyn Grace Academy

Designed by Zaha Hadid , the Evelyn Grace Academy uses a complex set of interlocking sections to achieve something you might think is impossible – making a school look beautiful.

2: Nottingham Contemporary

In a city that claims to have the oldest pub in Britain, how do you build a modern art gallery that fits in?

3: The Eden Project

Intended as the “eighth wonder of the world”, the Eden Project looks a little bit like it’s been beamed down from space – but inside are examples of plants from across the planet.

4: Wembley Stadium

Rebuilding the iconic Wembley Stadium was always going to be a challenge, but the new building’s huge arch is now a symbol of British sport.

5: The Young Vic

This London theatre might not be as big and imposing as some of the buildings on the list, but it shows how good buildings match their form to their function.

6: The Ashmolean Museum

The only building on Blueprint’s list that’s only pictured from the inside. Find out what makes a great interior.

7: 30 St Mary Axe

Or, to give it its more common name, The Gherkin. One of the best known buildings on the list – especially to viewers of The Apprentice – Blueprint sum it up by saying “Skyscrapers would never be the same again”.

8: Old Market Square, Nottingham

A reminder that not all buildings go a long way up – or have roofs . How do you build a modern market square in a medieval city?

9: The Tate Modern

The Tate Modern looks more than ten years old – but that’s because it’s housed in a converted power station. Find out how a building was changed from holding oil-powered turbines to the very best modern art.

10: Manchester Civil Justice Centre

When you think of courts, you probably think of stone and columns – not a bright, colourful building that looks a little bit like a game of Jenga. Find out how Denton Corker Marshall built a court for the 21st century.

Related links

• Blueprint's Best Scottish Buildings
• Blueprint's Best Welsh Buildings
• Blueprint's Best Northern Irish Buildings
• Top UK Architecture Firms

Your shout!

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