The impact of the new Barbie movie has transcended beyond the entertainment industry, but although it may seem that it was the famous doll that made pink fashionable, the truth is that this color has fans even in the world of architecture. 

In this article, we will explore five examples of “l’architecture en rose” or in other words, unconventional buildings that have embraced the color pink, defied expectations, and disrupted norms. 

Contrast on cloudy days, Seabreeze, United Kingdom, by RX Architects  

Located on Camber Sands beach in East Sussex, this vacation home defies architectural convention by incorporating pink pigments into its concrete finish to resist the onslaught of sand and wind. Additionally, its creators say that “the pink is reminiscent of traditional Mediterranean beach houses (…) and this particular color contrasts with the ever-changing sky to give a subdued appearance on cloudy days and a more vibrant look on brighter days.” 

Millennial pink, Glossier Los Angeles, USA  

As one of the most recognizable brands behind the millennial pink obsession, Glossier has brought its signature color palette to its Melrose Avenue store. From the facade to the eye-catching brand name at the entrance, pink dominates the space, creating an immersive experience consistent with the brand’s identity. The project was developed in-house by the brand’s team. 

The Feminine Side, His House and Her House, China, by Wutopia Lab 

This installation created by Wutopia Lab at the Bi-City Biennale of Urbanism/Architecture in Shenzhen, challenges the binary concepts of femininity and masculinity. Two contrasting houses, one pink and one blue, represent a reflection of gender expression and gender roles. Through the use of color, established conventions are questioned and a more inclusive and diverse vision is promoted. 

Sacred pink, Huaxiang Church hall, China, by Inuce  

The architectural firm Inuce revitalized this church in Fuzhou to reflect the growing young demographic of the congregation. The building extension features a zigzag roof and pink-clad walls, creating an energetic contrast to the more traditional elements of the original building. This combination of old and new symbolizes the generational change and dynamism of the community. 

Pink makeover, Enrico Fermi School, Italy, by BDR Bureau 

In this renovation of a 1960s school in Turin, a pink-painted steel frame extends from the facade to create open-air classrooms filled with plants. In addition, the existing building was also clad with adobe plaster in the same pastel color. According to its architects, this creative design approach allows for a connection to nature and promotes an inspiring educational environment. 

Although pink has jumped back into centerstage with the Barbie movie, the color has been incorporated into architecture for quite some time now, challenging pre-established norms and opening this discipline to new aesthetic possibilities.