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✦ IELTS Topic: Buildings & Architecture – 10 Useful Phrases

Architectural masterpiece
e.g., The Sydney Opera House is considered an architectural masterpiece.
Cutting-edge design
e.g., The building’s cutting-edge design makes it stand out in the skyline.
Blend of old and new
e.g., This city offers a fascinating blend of old and new architecture.
High-rise buildings
e.g., The area is full of high-rise buildings and business towers.
Traditional craftsmanship
e.g., The wooden temple shows incredible traditional craftsmanship.
Functional but unattractive
e.g., Many post-war buildings are functional but unattractive.
Heritage site
e.g., The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beauty.
Sustainable architecture
e.g., Sustainable architecture uses eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems.
Visually striking
e.g., The museum is visually striking with its unusual shape and colours.
Urban development
e.g., Rapid urban development has transformed the city in just a few years.

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Buildings & Architecture

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

What kind of buildings do you like?
Are there any famous buildings in your city?
Do you prefer old or modern architecture?
Would you like to design your own home one day?
Do you think buildings affect people’s moods?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a building you admire.
You should say:

what the building is
where it is located
what it looks like
and explain why you like it.

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. I’m really drawn to cutting-edge design—buildings that are creative and futuristic.
2. Yes, we have a cathedral that’s a famous heritage site and a major tourist attraction.
3. I love a blend of old and new—it gives a city personality and depth.
4. Definitely. I’d love to design a home using sustainable architecture—eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
5. Yes, buildings can inspire or depress people. A visually striking design can really lift your mood.

Part 2 Sample Answer

A building I really admire is the Louvre Museum in Paris. It’s famous not only for the artwork inside but also for its beautiful structure.

The museum combines classical architecture with the modern glass pyramid at the entrance, creating a fascinating blend of old and new. The pyramid is especially visually striking, especially when lit up at night.

I admire this building because it respects history while embracing cutting-edge design. It’s also a symbol of urban development done right—it draws millions of visitors but still respects the original atmosphere of the area.

To me, the Louvre is more than just a museum; it’s a true architectural masterpiece.

✦ Comprehension Test: Buildings & Architecture

1. "The Sydney Opera House is considered an architectural masterpiece."
Q: How does the speaker feel about the Sydney Opera House?

2. "The building’s cutting-edge design makes it stand out in the skyline."
Q: What kind of design does the building have?

3. "This city offers a fascinating blend of old and new architecture."
Q: What kind of architecture can be found in the city?

4. "The area is full of high-rise buildings and business towers."
Q: What does the speaker say about the area?

5. "The wooden temple shows incredible traditional craftsmanship."
Q: What is special about the wooden temple?

6. "Many post-war buildings are functional but unattractive."
Q: How are the post-war buildings described?

7. "The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beauty."
Q: What is the significance of the palace?

8. "Sustainable architecture uses eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems."
Q: What is special about sustainable architecture?

9. "The museum is visually striking with its unusual shape and colours."
Q: How is the museum described?

10. "Rapid urban development has transformed the city in just a few years."
Q: What has changed the city recently?

✦ Answer Key

It’s very impressive and iconic.
Innovative and modern.
A mix of historical and modern styles.
It’s urban, vertical, and full of tall buildings.
Its traditional building skills and detail.
Useful, but not attractive.
It is protected and historically important.
It’s environmentally friendly and efficient.
Eye-catching and visually creative.
New buildings and growth have changed it quickly.