Not your usual concert hall

The first thing that comes to mind when people discuss about classical concert halls is usually the classical style of architecture with its big pillars and Roman-style ornaments. Walt Disney Concert Hall, home of Los Angeles Philharmonic is a striking exception to the rule.

(Photo: Discover LA)

Architect Frank Gehry frequently refused to abide by modern architecture principles that form follows function. He instead employed his trademark curved stainless steel in the exterior of the building, the same technique he had employed in designing the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain. The intriguing exterior fosters visitors' imagination and amazes them, especially when sunlight reflects off its matte finish and informal contour.

(Photo: interactive.wttw.com, landscapevoice.com)

However, the concert hall interior itself really is just that: a concert hall. Gehry himself described that the hall is a highly functional box, wrapped in his trademark exterior. Needless to say, the hall has impeccable acoustics; its walls and ceilings are finished with Douglas-fir wood, and the floor is made of authentic oak. The seating arrangement looks like a big flower or a garden; Mr. Gehry is likely inspired by Lillian Disney, Walt's widow, who is very fond of flowers.

(Photo: huffingtonpost.com, lasavvytours.com, archdaily.com)