Built on a strip of land running between a lagoon and the open ocean, and surrounded by lush vegetation, the Jean Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre in New Caledonia is visually stunning yet sits harmoniously within the surrounding landscape. Designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, the centre is devoted to the local Kanak culture and named after a leading figure in a New Caledonian independence movement that contested French rule. Its highly photogenic façade features ten cases - curved rib-like structures inspired by traditional Kanak villages, with each featuring vertically set beams of laminated iroko timber. I like the way a synthesis is achieved between the vernacular architecture and culture of the region whilst creating a highly modern structure. In addition, I like its interaction with its surroundings, aesthetically and conceptually, and also, for example, through the way it utilises the prevailing sea breezes to provide natural ventilation. Add to this the political implications of such a building at this site and I'd say you have a pretty interesting piece of architecture.