populuxe

Thanks to BLDGBLOG I just discovered this amazing architect named Konstantin Melnikov. He designed and built these wild, experimental buildings in Russia during the 1920's and 1930's.

The Sonata of Sleep is a long bridge-like building with sloping floors and regulated temperature, air, etc to promote good sleep.

Reminds me of the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena by Craig Ellwood.

more outrageous designs after the jump

...

Leningrad Pravda tower, "a delirium of gigantic stairways and roller bearings."

Parking garage supported by Oscar-like bronze statues. To be constructed as a bridge in Paris, over the Seine. WOW! He was definitely ahead of his time.