Louvre Pyramid in Paris, France

The Louvre Pyramid is a modern architectural masterpiece that stands at the center of the Cour Napoléon courtyard of the Louvre Museum in Paris, France. Designed by Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei, the glass and metal pyramid was inaugurated in 1989 and serves as the main entrance to the world-renowned museum.

Composed of 673 glass panes, the pyramid rises to a height of 21.6 meters (about 71 feet) and forms a striking contrast to the classical architecture of the historic Louvre Palace. The structure is both functional and symbolic, representing the merging of old and new. Beneath the pyramid lies a large subterranean lobby that connects the museum’s three main wings—Denon, Sully, and Richelieu—streamlining visitor access and circulation.

When it was first proposed, the design was controversial. 

Many critics felt that the modernist style clashed with the Renaissance and Baroque elements of the surrounding buildings. However, over time, the Louvre Pyramid has become an iconic symbol of Paris, admired for its bold vision and elegant simplicity.

The pyramid also has deeper symbolic meaning. Its geometric form references ancient Egyptian pyramids, a nod to the Louvre’s extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities. The transparency of the glass panels allows natural light to filter into the underground lobby, creating a bright and welcoming space that enhances the visitor experience.

Today, the Louvre Pyramid is not just a gateway to the world's most visited art museum, but also a cultural icon in its own right. It has been featured in numerous films, books, and artworks, and is a popular spot for tourists to photograph. The pyramid exemplifies how contemporary design can enhance historic spaces, blending innovation with tradition in one of the most celebrated cultural sites in the world.

The Broad Art Museum in Los Angeles, California

The Broad is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles, California, celebrated for its striking architecture and world-class collection of postwar and contemporary art. Opened to the public in September 2015, the museum was founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, who envisioned a cultural institution that would make art accessible to everyone.

Designed by the architectural firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, The Broad is known for its unique exterior, nicknamed “the veil and the vault.” The “veil” is a honeycomb-like white concrete shell that wraps around the building, allowing natural light to filter in while maintaining a sense of openness. Beneath it, the “vault” refers to the central core that houses the museum’s storage and operations.

Inside, The Broad offers 50,000 square feet of gallery space across two floors. The museum is home to over 2,000 works of art, one of the most significant collections of contemporary art in the world. Highlights include pieces by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Cindy Sherman, and Jeff Koons, among many others.

The Broad has become a key cultural destination in Los Angeles, both for its impressive collection and its architectural innovation. Located next to the Walt Disney Concert Hall, it contributes to a vibrant arts corridor in the city. By combining public access with bold design and a powerful collection, The Broad represents a new model for contemporary art museums.

Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada

A few visuals from the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.