If architects have their way, India may soon build a new spectacular space station-style structure which could outshine the Taj Mahal.
The glistening design, which takes its inspiration from traditional Hindu life, was revealed for world architecture competition to be held during the World Architecture Festival (WAF) in Barcelona later this year.
According to the plan, the building called Atmosphere will contain 80 housing units designed for multi-generational families.
Large terraces off the main facade provide considerable outside space for each home, and special panels carrying shimmering mobile reflective disks are scattered across the building's mesh finish.
The building, proposed to be built in Kolkata even includes an indoor putting green, the Daily Mail reported.
If constructed, it would outshine the Taj Mahal in Agra, which is the most beautiful structure in India and one of the biggest wonders of the world, the report said.
Other futuristic designs revealed for world architecture competition range from a clam shell to a long chocolate ribbon design.
These startling visions of future have been brought to life as part of the festival's Open Buildings People's Choice Award.
Officially know as NLF Bursa, the chocolate ribbon design to be built in Turkey will be a luxury residential high-rise which is topped off with a helipad.
There is also a restaurant at the top which would give diners a 360 degree unobstructed view. It also included a railway system and shopping centres.
Another eye-catching design is the Oyster, the 18-storey Taipei Nangang Office Tower proposed to be built in Taiwan is almost identical to a shell.
The architects took inspiration for the design from river pebbles and say it creates a “unique aesthetic that conveys the idea of softness and elegance as well as strength and character.”
Incorporated are kitchens, coffee shops, small libraries and brainstorming areas which the designers say make it a fantastic “urban living room.”