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Whether it’s the quality, feeling or act, most would argue that a world void of romance is a world incomplete. And while Romanticism may have had its glory days back in the 18th century, romance and allure still pervade today’s built environment.
Thankfully, that sought-after feeling is right at our fingertips. Romance is not just realized in the literal sense; there is a physicality that prevails through form, space and structure. The built environment is filled with romance — just have a look around. From the interior and exterior to the landscape, romance ceaselessly permeates like a beating heart. Listed below are eight built projects, all of which remind us of the love we are all surrounded by, a romance that never leaves our side.
Manshausen Island Resort
By Stinessen Arkitektur, Steigen, Nordland, Norway
Jury & Popular Choice Winner, 2016 A+Awards, Architecture +Cantilever; Popular Choice Winner, 2016 A+Awards, Architecture +Glass; Popular Choice Winner, 2016 A+Awards, Hotels & Resorts
The Mushroom – a wood house in the forest
by ZJJZ Atelier, China
Jury Winner, 10th Annual A+Awards, Architecture +Joy
Romantic Nest in Amalfi Coast
By Ernesto Fusco Interior Designer, Amalfi, Italy
Little Cottage
by Bettini Architetto, Bologna, Italy
Photo by Brando Cimarosti
Courtyards are inherently magical spaces — the seclusion and privacy gives way for intimate connections. Located near the historic center of Bologna, this 50 square meter cottage offers guests an intimate yet well-functioning living space. During the day, the home radiates with sun and at night, carefully studied artificial lighting has been selected to produce a soft atmosphere. From the painting choices to the wallpaper, the apartment was designed with intentionality and makes room for individual experience.
The Painterly Approach
By Arterra Landscape Architects, Tiburon, Belvedere Tiburon, California
Jury Winner, 2015 A+Awards, Private Garden
Photo by Michele Lee Willson
Just like its name, this landscape feels like a piece of art and embraces the romantic art form of hand painting. Conceived to address both functional and aesthetic purposes, this landscape addresses the site’s existing draining issues while creating an exterior space to draw in the family. Designed as a winding swale, the landscape offers a beautiful walking path that leads towards a seating area and outdoor pool. Incorporating many native Californian plants, the bright tones of yellow, red and purple create a painterly effect. Flowers that connect with the beautiful backdrop, almost touching the sky and reminiscent of the Romantic landscapes of the 18eme siècle.
The Number 6
By Building, Turin, Italy
Shan-shui: A Duality | The Chuan Malt Whisky Distillery
By Neri & Hu, Emeishan City, Leshan, China
Finalist, 2022 A+Awards, Architecture +Branding
With the spiritual landmark of Mount Emei nestled the backdrop, this distillery is located on revered land and carry’s the responsibility of retaining memory while embracing growth. The project explores the notion of duality, otherwise known as shan-shui in Chinese culture, and aims to balance the concept of permeance and transformation. This paradigm is captured in the reckoning between Chinese vernacular architecture and contemporary geometries. As visitors move throughout the distillery’s numerous spaces –– both subterranean and above ground –– they are followed by a powerful romantic sensation.
Garden Shed
By Avanto Architects Ltd and Linda Bergroth, Finland
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