Five For The Ages

By Belinda Luscombe

When does a building become more important than its purpose? Why do some buildings become such reference points that they may never be torn down? After all, many works of architectural merit and structural solidity have been destroyed in the name of war or progress (witness New York City's Pennsylvania Station). Some buildings, it seems, put down foundations in the psyche of their location; they may grow old but will never become dated. Le Corbusier's chapel at Ronchamp is a certain survivor. Here are five others likely to outlive us all. --By Belinda Luscombe

HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANK, 1985 Architect: Norman Foster All the workings of a high rise--from escalator machinery to cross braces--are displayed in Hong Kong's forceful steel-and-glass tower.

GUGGENHEIM BILBAO, 1997 Architect: Frank Gehry Shrouded in titanium, this massive gallery gleams like a voluptuous Spanish spaceship that has landed in an ancient town. Spectacular outside, gracious within.

SEAGRAM BUILDING, 1958 Architect: Ludwig Mies van der Rohe His best office tower includes a plaza, then a rarity in New York City. Its bronze-and-dark-glass skin gives it a classically refined stature.

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, 1973 Architect: Joern Utzon Is it all roof or all walls? As beloved now as it was controversial during construction, the building is a blissful union of unique structure and breathtaking location. Sydneysiders fight over what buildings are worthy to go next to it.

CHRYSLER BUILDING, 1930 Architect: William Van Alen Manhattan's Roman-candle skyscraper, with hubcaps for gargoyles and one of the most recognized crowns anywhere, is 1,048 ft. of shimmering charm.