The Oslo Opera House is one of the most striking cultural buildings of the 21st century, a vast white roof that rises from the fjord and invites everyone to walk across it.

In this episode, discover how Norway went from a century of hesitation to building a landmark that opened ahead of schedule, under budget, and instantly became the heart of a neighborhood.

From the political debates and bold design competition, to the challenges of laying 36,000 marble panels on a roof shaped by snow and rain, this is the story of how an opera house became a public plaza, a national icon, and a neighbor to the city.

It was never meant to be forever.

The London Eye, once called the Millennium Wheel, was pitched as a five-year celebration for the year 2000. With no client, no funding, and no official backing, its creators fought for every inch of progress.

Against all odds, their temporary attraction became a permanent icon, changing London’s skyline, and how the city sees itself, forever.

Explore the story of the Rome Colosseum, the world’s most iconic amphitheater. From its origins under Emperor Vespasian to its role in hosting gladiator fights, public executions, and even naval battles, this episode uncovers the political and architectural forces behind ancient Rome’s greatest arena.

Learn how the Colosseum was built over Nero’s private lake, why it symbolized imperial power and control, and how it evolved from a stage of spectacle into a global symbol of Roman engineering and cultural memory.

Perfect for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the legacy of ancient Rome.

The Cathedral of Brasília is one of the most daring religious buildings of the 20th century. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer and completed in 1970, it broke away from centuries of tradition with its crown-like columns, circular floor plan, and stained glass ceiling.

This episode explores how the cathedral came to be, the political vision behind Brazil’s new capital, and the cultural tensions that left the structure unfinished for a decade.

From concrete curves to floating angels, discover how modernism and faith found common ground in the heart of Brasília.

In the heart of 1970s Tokyo, a building appeared that looked like it had landed from another planet. A stack of steel capsules, each with a round window like a spaceship, bolted to concrete towers in the middle of a chaotic, booming city.

It was one of the most radical experiments of Japan’s Metabolist movement, a vision of a city that could adapt and evolve like a living organism.

But what happened to that vision? And why, half a century later, does the Nakagin Capsule Tower still fascinate architects, students, and dreamers around the world?

The Sagrada Familia is more than just a church. It is Barcelona’s most famous landmark, Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, and one of the most ambitious buildings ever conceived.

In this episode of Architecture Topics, we'll dive into the fascinating story of the Sagrada Familia. From its humble beginnings as a modest parish project, to Gaudí’s radical redesign, to the slow, controversial, and still unfinished construction that has captivated the world for over 140 years.

We explore the symbolism of its towering spires, the devotion and eccentricity of Gaudí himself, and how this "living bible in stone" became a global icon even though it has never been completed.

If you have ever wondered why the Sagrada Familia is still under construction or what it really means to Barcelona, this is the story you have been waiting for.

Listen now to discover the vision, the struggle, and the patience behind one of the greatest architectural works of all time.

Discover the story behind Seattle’s most iconic landmark, the Space Needle. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, this futuristic tower captured the imagination of a city and became a lasting symbol of ambition and innovation.

Learn how a simple sketch on a napkin evolved into one of the most recognizable structures in the world, from its bold design and challenging construction to its immediate embrace by locals and visitors alike.

Explore the story behind the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing, one of the most radical buildings of the 21st century. Designed by Rem Koolhaas and OMA, this massive looping skyscraper challenged conventional architecture and redefined China’s urban skyline.

From its politically charged commission to its daring structural design and the infamous fire that nearly overshadowed it, this episode unpacks the cultural, engineering, and symbolic weight behind one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks.

Perfect for anyone curious about modern architecture, state power, and how to push the boundaries of an established discipline.