If asked, I would normally say I don't much like modern architecture but in fact it isn't true. I find skyscrapers of this type very spectacular and attractive. These are the two tallest in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.
The one on the left is the Al Faisaliah. In the globe towards the point of the tower there is a three floor restaurant abd below that is an observation deck. The design is said to have been inspired by a ball point pen. It is slightly smaller than the Kingdom Tower on the right which has 44 floors. The "bridge" across the top is called the Skybridge, an observation deck which gives a magnificent view all around the city and out to the desert. At night the opening is illuminated with lights that change colour. It must be quite some sight.
Sheila, Thanks for visiting my blog. I may have some post cards (old ones) for you. If your email is on here I'll scan and email them to you!
ReplyDeleteThe Kingdom Tower must have been complete since I was in Riyadh last. I remember being impressed by Al Faisaliah even although it was only from a Saudi taxi. Now I shall have to check when I was there - old diaries here I come.
ReplyDeleteHa! You can't fool me. I know that these are just highly magnified pictures of personal hygiene objects. The first one is used for manicures and the second one is a leg shaver. Very ingenious.
ReplyDeleteBut seriously, they are sort of interesting buildings. I guess their appeal kind of depends on how well they work with their surroundings.
@Kim, I was delighted to visit and "meet" you! You'll find my email address on the "Contact" tab.
ReplyDelete@Bob, I believe the Kingdom Tower was finished in 2002 and the Al Faisaliah in 2000. So that should narrow down the number of diaries you have to consult. :)
@Christine, I thought the first was a toothpick. :) They are interesting, one way or another, but as for the surroundings, I don't know. There seem to be a considerable number more going up at the moment if SkyscraperPage has its facts right.
What interesting buildings. Do not think I would want to be in the observation area. I do not like heights.
ReplyDeleteEven more amazing is how it was only a short time ago that it was just desert there.
ReplyDeleteThe question is, are they taller than our own Sears Tower? And if you think about it, doesn't the one on the right look like a bottle opener? :)
ReplyDelete@Life Goes On, I'm not fond of heights either but I could just about manage if it's well enclosed. Nothing open. And probably no looking down. I suppose that defeats the object. :)
ReplyDelete@Odie, true, things have changed very quickly. Thanks to oil for that.
@Tess, *our* Sears Tower? Not mine. They aren't, in fact, quite as tall. Yes, it could be a giant bottle opener. Or an upside-down stirrup.
PS to everyone. That last commenter was spam but I left it there minus its links because I liked the bottle opener idea. :)
ReplyDeleteI like buildings like these, the view from the top must be beautiful. I hope I ever make it to there.
ReplyDelete