Innovative architecture always makes our travel to-do list. Some of the most interesting buildings of the past year highlight the strides made in sustainability, construction materials and computer-aided design. All bringing us closer to the future envisioned in The Jetsons.

For instance, Japanese designers TNA created an optical illusion of floating floors for the Ring House. Approximately 185 miles outside of Tokyo, the private home stands three stories high and provides uninterrupted views of the surrounding woods. As pictured above, its beauty speaks for itself, but it also won the 2008 Wallpaper Award for architectural design.

Another impressive structure resides in Nîmes, France. Known for being practically invisible, the home dubbed Spidernethewood, by the French firm R&Sie(n) disappears into the natural landscape through an elaborate system of netting. The exterior mesh supports vines and shrubs, which ultimately grow to camouflage the house. (pictured below).

More impressive architectural structures and information below:

New Territories & architecture

Plataforma Arquitectura on Spidernethewood

ArchRecord

InHabitat on Sustainable Public Housing