Architecture is one of the most fascinating and diverse forms of human expression. From ancient ruins to modern skyscrapers, it reflects the creativity, ingenuity, and cultural values of the societies that built them.

This gallery shows some of the buildings that have impressed me in my travels. It certainly doesn’t include every great building in the world – just those that I found to be interesting or those that had a story behind them. I have tried to showcase a variety of architecture, from grand to humble, an opportunity to explore diversity and appreciate the beauty and complexity of different styles.

At one end of the spectrum, grand architecture represents the pinnacle of human achievement. Whether it’s the soaring spires of Gothic cathedrals or the sleek lines of modernist buildings, these structures are often awe-inspiring in their scale and ambition. They reflect the aspirations of the societies that built them, whether it’s to create a monument to a deity or to showcase technological prowess.

At the other end of the spectrum, humble architecture can be just as fascinating and inspiring. From traditional cottages to remote huts, these structures reflect the ingenuity and resourcefulness of people who had to work with limited resources. They often have a charm and character that is all their own, and can provide valuable insights into the daily lives of the people who built them.

By capturing the details and unique features of different structures, a photo essay like this can also provide a window into the history, culture, and values of the people who built them. Whether it’s the intricate carvings on a medieval cathedral or the colorful lighting on a public building, each architectural style has its own story to tell.

Sod Roofed House in Norway – The roofs on buildings like this offer places for birds to nest and insects to breed. The vegetation on these roofs also helps to soak up rainwater, and may even reduce annual runoff by 40 to 90 percent.

Cooma Court House – he Cooma Courthouse is a beautiful granite building built in the 1860s and is still in use today.

Iron Lace and Ferns in New Orleans, USA – Everywhere you look, in the Frech Quarter of New Orleans, ornate patterns of intricate wrought-iron wrap around balconies, curve up staircases, and keeps secret gardens secure behind locked gates.

The Shard, London, UK. – The Shard is the tallest building in the UK and Western Europe; the fourth tallest building in Europe and the 96th tallest building in the world

The Imitation Grand Canal of Venice – In the true opulence of Las Vegas, the Intercontinental Hotel built this small scale replica of Venice’s Grand Canal

Montgomery Hall, Swanbourne Hospital, Western Australia – This former hospital for the Insane is a grim reminder of the brutal way people with mental illness were once treated in the 20th Century

Australian Parliament House, Canberra – Australia’s Parliament House is built into a hill. People can walk over the grass roof in. keeping with the philosophy that the citizens are always ‘above’ the parliament.

Stawell Primary School – The school opened as a tent school in 1858. Built to a grand architectural design in the late 1860s this school architecture is typical of government schools built in Victoria in the late 19th Century.