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Whether it’s an ancient castle or a gleaming modern skyscraper punctuating the sky, there is a staggering brilliance to the artistry of architecture. The following buildings serve as breathtaking monuments to the pinnacles this artform can achieve when properly executed. From rotating structures to colossal pianos, they even make the largest skyscrapers in the world quite mundane.

Huainan, China: Piano House

The facade of this elegant structure, a glass violin propped up against a black piano, salutes the musical genius playing out within.  The Piano Violin House is an immaculate work of art that was constructed by architectural design students of Hefey University of Technology. 

Along with a grand display of two of the world’s most celebrated instruments, visitors can wander inside through the crystal-clear violin and take an elevator up to the piano.  Whether or not you’re a die-hard musician, you’ll enjoy the way the piano and violin harmoniously come together as their melodies whisper softly in your ear.

Munich, Germany: BMW Welt

The words, “what in the world is that?” may slip off your tongue once you witness the futuristic décor of the BMW Welt. And no, it’s not a flying saucer that has decided to land in the heart of Munich, Germany.   In fact, this artistically designed creation of Coop Himmelb(l)au is more like dying and going to BMW heaven due to the extensive sleek cars and motorcycles showcased here. 

If you’re in the mood for something new, shops have the perfect BMW accessory you’ve been looking for.  And of course looking at these luxury cars can work up an appetite. In the same manner the car company knows how to please their customers on the road, the restaurant located here proves that BMW Welt knows just how to tantalize the taste buds as well.

Newark, Ohio: The Longaberger Basket Building

If this architectural landmark doesn’t make you want to pack a huge picnic basket full of tasty treats then nothing will. The Longaberger Company is specifically known for its “Medium Market Basket," so why not make its headquarters one gigantic basket?

The 180,000-square feet, seven-story building was the idea of the company’s founder, David Longaberger, who dreamt of a building that would mirror the popular basket even down to its hand-woven exterior.  So the next time you’re in Newark, Ohio you’ll want to pay the largest basket in the world a visit.  Just keep an eye out for Yogi Bear.

Montreal, Canada: Montreal Biosphere

A huge sphere has emerged on Montreal’s landscape and it is waiting for you venture inside.  The Biosphere is a museum that obliges every onlooker to see what else it has in store by its unique appearance alone.  Resembling a colossal crystal ball, this building promises magic within and delivers: The museum that lies inside presents a dynamic world of exhibitions.

You’ll be taken on a classic journey surrounding the environment and the issues that lie in its path.  Visitors can also partake in a number of activities that educate as well as create a fun experience.  If you’re a true ecologist you’ll want to witness the magic that is concealed inside the Biosphere, or you can admire the complexities of its unique structure since they are both equally interesting.

Dubai, UAE: Dynamic Tower

Staring at this futuristic building too long presents a unique visual puzzle due to its constantly changing appearance. But as dizzying as that may sound, you’re still be compelled to stare. Dubai’s Dynamic Tower is an 80-floor skyscraper that continuously changes its façade similar to the way a snake wriggles out of its dead skin. 

But there’s so much more you can expect from this exquisite structure.  It promises to never recreate the same appearance and its rotating features will also provide a green effect due to the wind turbines intertwined with each of its rotating floors.  This is one building where you can visit it over and over again and be presented with a new face every time.