ADVERTISEMENT

When you hear that someone’s an architect or a designer, odds are that you’re impressed. If you’re like us, you might imagine that they build gorgeous skyscrapers and meticulously work to elevate interiors to perfection. However, not all ‘pros’ are of the same caliber. Some look like they’re just winging it. 

We’ve collected some of the top posts (read: biggest nightmares) from the r/BadArchitecture and r/ArchitectureFails subreddits to show you just how bad things can get. We’re not only talking about a lack of taste, some of these structural decisions are downright dangerous! Scroll down for some architectural madness. You’ll swear you’ve accidentally stumbled down the rabbit hole and into Wonderland…

You May Also Like:
#2

Control C + Control V X 10000000000

Control C + Control V X 10000000000

I_Am_A_Music_Fan Report

#3

That’s Not A Kitchen Island. Kitchen Lagoon?

That’s Not A Kitchen Island. Kitchen Lagoon?

kansasdaylily Report

The r/BadArchitecture online community was founded in early 2012, and it currently has just over 2.7k members. Meanwhile, the r/ArchitectureFails group, also started up in 2012, has 670 members.

They are niche subreddits that focus on one thing and one thing alone—showing the world just how bizarre and mind-meltingly low-quality some buildings have been designed. Fridges in the middle of the kitchen, wonky windows, and Extremely Precarious Death Stairs (patent pending) are just the tip of the iceberg.

#4

Start Small, And Then Just Expand! House In Cambodia

Start Small, And Then Just Expand! House In Cambodia

ratmanhog99 Report

#5

Stair

Stair

HimD98 Report

ADVERTISEMENT
#6

This House

This House

kaupas24 Report

Add photo comments
POST
Ken Beattie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't know what's worse, the weird mishmash of styles or the fact the pillars aren't on the corners.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

One of the best skills you can have as an architect (and that goes for practically any other career path as well) is being a capable leader. That means knowing how to communicate clearly and efficiently with others, supporting and respecting your team, and being able to find compromises when things get tense.

Without decent leadership or communication skills, you can have the best and brightest ideas in the entire realm, but that won’t do you much good if you can’t turn your imaginative blueprints into reality. No architect is an island—they have to be team players.

#7

This Flight Of Stairs Right Outside A Bedroom

This Flight Of Stairs Right Outside A Bedroom

Vjaa Report

Add photo comments
POST
Brenda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This would never get approved! I think there has been some unpermitted "home improvements" made

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT
#9

I Want To Understand... I Really Do

I Want To Understand... I Really Do

raisincain1 Report

Add photo comments
POST
Ken Beattie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's obviously deliberate, but why? Curtains won't hang right. The angled windows don't open by the look of it. When you go to resell you cut down the number of potential buyers drastically. And to top it off, it doesn't really look that great anyway.

Fenchurch
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The wonky ones are false windows. Just glass no holes behind them. I'm guessing they rigged it up for a joke while building.

Load More Replies...
Two_rolling_black_eyes
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Its called a porta-potty. They are left at job sites or other places where a bathroom with running water is not available. If you're asking about the building behind it, I have no idea.

January Tempis
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I bet it looks groovy from inside! I always arrange furniture at diagonal angles, so I think I'd like the way this feels. (It's not my fault; I'm an aquarius.)

C.O. Shea
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is that guy who fancied himself a designer/architect but all he had was contractor racks and a table saw. Derp-factor 10.

Riley Quinn
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Knew someone who build his house using discarded building supplies, which meant most of the windows didn't match. Yet, with careful planning, it worked. I can only imagine what the vinyl siders thought of this nitwit design.

Shirley Heyn
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As soon as initial construction is done, it's time to remodel. . .?

Chris Machabee
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

An architectural design of a physical altercation, an abstraction of the imagination, or some really strong weed.

Martin König
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The saying in Czech Rep goes like: „Pretending to be an upscale, but your bathroom is on your backyard.“ Frontyard in this case. Probably.

@wanderlustt
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"it's like putting pictures in a photo album bill" said the construction manager

PrettyJoyBird
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

🎼🎵 🎙"it used to be a fun house, but now its full of silly clowns" 🎶🎤 -P!nk

PrettyJoyBird
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Fun house from the State fair grounds. Maybe a clown lives there.

DD
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ugly as sin but at least there's symmetry. There are a few houses out there that appear to have whatever windows the guy building it could find. None match in size or style.

Nimitz
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have questions about that building's loadbearing walls

Mike T
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Witches aren't supposed to be able to fly into crooked windows.

Melissa Mayhem
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This has to be in Belgium. The black hole or architectural eyesores.

Serenity Now!
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wonder if that "pit stop" is considered their new bathroom. May as well be.

El Howard
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's more expensive to install them crooked than to install them level!

Michelle Carlson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can't imagine what the framers thought during this. How many cuts were involved?!

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT

Poor communication skills will inevitably lead to a deep divide between what the designer envisioned and what the contractors have built. When there’s ambiguity in the blueprints or instructions, you’re essentially letting the builders decide what to do themselves. And that’s exactly what they’ll do if the architect isn’t on-site, ready to field questions.

#10

Something About This Shower In My Old Childhood House

Something About This Shower In My Old Childhood House

Edersonson Report

#11

An Apartment In London That Has No Front Door. Just A Set Of Stairs Leading Up To A Window

An Apartment In London That Has No Front Door. Just A Set Of Stairs Leading Up To A Window

Lord-Crimble Report

Add photo comments
POST
Narwhal Blast
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There was no architect or engineer involved in here... I've seen this one before, the owner modified this in order to charge an obscene amount of money for rent. This article is so bad, on a lot of them there is no architect involved...

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#12

But Why?

But Why?

RrennerR Report

Add photo comments
POST
Ken Beattie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Open plan gets pushed too far sometimes. I think it's ok to a point, but this has gone past that point.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

Meanwhile, the New Jersey Institute of Technology also stresses the need to have top-notch design and problem-solving skills, as well as a background in mathematics and a solid understanding of the law. What’s more, good architects will be computer-savvy and have a way to turn their creativity into clear visuals.

ADVERTISEMENT
#14

This Combination Staircase/Cellar/ Bathroom Gets Worse Every Second You Look At It

This Combination Staircase/Cellar/ Bathroom Gets Worse Every Second You Look At It

GdoubleWB Report

Add photo comments
POST
Jihana
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I always wondered... If someone is using the toilet anyone in the basement is trapped til that person is finished?

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

At times, poor design decisions aren’t a result of maliciousness on the contractors’ part. They might have been the best course of action, given the circumstances and (a lack of) resources. In other words, when you need to keep a deadline, you look for ways to get the job done, instead of aiming for ‘perfection’ (if that even exists). In times like this, it often helps to look at the property you just bought as an eternal ‘work in progress.’ Not every detail will be to your liking, but with enough care and attention, you can make your house feel like a home.

#17

This Thing On Bratislava Castle

This Thing On Bratislava Castle

FreakDustSK_2004 Report

Add photo comments
POST
The Exquisite Pancake
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’m guessing they were renovating but then a bunch of people got annoyed because it was a part of history? I have no idea what I’m talking about so I may just be spouting nonsense

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT

However, in other cases, mistakes happen because the contractor team might be lazy, looking to cut costs, or might simply want to get the project over as quickly as possible. 

Ariane Sherine, the former editor at ‘These Three Rooms,’ previously told Bored Panda why mistakes happen and what we can all do to embrace that our homes are imperfect.

"Certain materials might be unavailable so they decide to use an unsuitable substitute, or they might have a surplus of the substitute that they want to use up. They might be misinformed and not very good at their job and think they're doing the right thing. Or they might be trying to save money and end up cutting corners as a result," the interior design expert shared why mistakes can and do crop up in homes.

#19

There's No Entrance To The Balcony Except For That Little Window

There's No Entrance To The Balcony Except For That Little Window

ulku6 Report

#20

This Floor Plan Is A Dungeon

This Floor Plan Is A Dungeon

Bonesofdoom Report

Add photo comments
POST
Jihana
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

From the garage directly to the master bedroom? But as a migraine sufferer I dig the bedroom in the centre. No windows, so it's nice and dark, with access to both toilets in case you have to throw up.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT
#21

Why?

Why?

Owdagu Report

Add photo comments
POST
Kosnian
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Found an old window during renovations, it's possible the historical buildings protection required it remains visible. Execution could qualify as questionable though

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

One example of a contractor not being worth their salt is opting for materials that don’t fit the purpose. For instance, if they decide to use wood like oak, ash, and pine outdoors, which are not weather resistant, there’s probably something fishy going on.

Other red flags include not following the right process during an installation, “such as not tanking a wetroom to ensure it's waterproof.”

#22

Feel Sorry For The Person Who Thought It Was A Fire Escape

Feel Sorry For The Person Who Thought It Was A Fire Escape

noah-dee33 Report

#24

The House Next Door #fail

The House Next Door #fail

Snowwy12345678 Report

The interior design expert suggested learning from other people’s mistakes and only using licensed and vetted tradespeople for jobs. She also noted that no home is ever finished, so it’s best to embrace the quirks and see them as charming details that add character to the property.

ADVERTISEMENT

"There's always some problem, something to fix or replace that would make it better. Realistically, as long as there's nothing major such as a faulty boiler or leaking roof, it's up to the homeowner what they're willing to live with," she told us. In short, ensure that your home is functional, but try not to stress too much if every tiny little detail doesn't align. So long as you're not in danger or incredibly inconvenienced, whether or not you can live in an imperfectly designed home becomes a matter of perspective and taste.

#28

Luxury Spanish Colonial Revival Prison Style Apartments

Luxury Spanish Colonial Revival Prison Style Apartments

imoshochu Report

ADVERTISEMENT
See Also on Bored Panda
#29

This Staris Gives Me The Creeps

This Staris Gives Me The Creeps

charizardlv51 Report

#30

Bathroom I Found In A Rundown Theatre

Bathroom I Found In A Rundown Theatre

lazulilizard Report

Which of these architecture and design disasters impressed you the most, Pandas? Were there any that you would genuinely classify as epic fails? What's the very worst design fail that you've seen with your own eyes? We'd love to hear what you think, so feel free to pop by the comments to share your opinions.

#31

A Square House On Top Of A Tower ??

A Square House On Top Of A Tower ??

lamasypatoche Report

Add photo comments
POST
Kosnian
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Replacement of a 18th or 19th century tower round roof with a construction to gain access to an apartment added on the roof in the 60s or 70s. The tower contains the staircase. Probably north of France.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#32

New Wall They Made At My Work

New Wall They Made At My Work

megnut01 Report

#33

The Balconies Are Done Boss

The Balconies Are Done Boss

chieflegend Report

Add photo comments
POST
Frosty
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The spin-off of silence of the lambs, silence of the bar, didnt go so well

View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT
See Also on Bored Panda
#37

An Outhouse In New Mexico (Tinted Red Because Of My Headlamp)

An Outhouse In New Mexico (Tinted Red Because Of My Headlamp)

lazulilizard Report

Add photo comments
POST
Panda Kicki
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This isnt weird. Swedish outhoses traditionally often have 2-4 holes and going there was/is a social thing.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#38

Seriously? Just “Y”? As A Designer This Is So Grating

Seriously? Just “Y”? As A Designer This Is So Grating

indyarchyguy Report

Add photo comments
POST
Cara
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Shame there was no room to place the Y lower… oh wait!

View more commentsArrow down menu
#40

Seems Pretty Useless

Seems Pretty Useless

TheAirPlusUnion Report

Add photo comments
POST
LK
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd like to see what's just to the left of the 'disabled' sign. I suspect it is a bell, or button, to call for someone's attention. Hey, it could even be a lift, elevator or ramp.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#41

Great Closet

Great Closet

M_M_56 Report

Add photo comments
POST
Kobe
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Great indeed for ironing board, as they did. Perfect for all other cleaning stuff too. The other side has a door too, just needs some shelves. See no problem here.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#42

This Door Makes Me Mad

This Door Makes Me Mad

borntodie232 Report

Add photo comments
POST
David
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

this is an old greenhouse that has been partially modified at some point. You can also see the bolt holes where some sort of additional lock hasp has been installed on the other side of the door. Nothing to be "mad" about here.

View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT
See Also on Bored Panda
#43

Architect: "What Do You Want?" Me: "You Know The Graphics They Used On 80s Vhs Movies?" Architect: "Say No More."

Architect: "What Do You Want?" Me: "You Know The Graphics They Used On 80s Vhs Movies?" Architect: "Say No More."

sideshowmario Report

#44

When You Don’t Think All The Way Through Your Drainage System

When You Don’t Think All The Way Through Your Drainage System

Alie_writes Report

Add photo comments
POST
Pieter LeGrande
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Done on the cheap. The downpipe could have gone down into the kerb, then a right-angle exit to the gutter.

View more commentsArrow down menu
#45

University Of The Arts. Chaco, Argentina

University Of The Arts. Chaco, Argentina

reddit.com Report

#47

Architecture At It's Peak

Architecture At It's Peak

reddit.com Report

Add photo comments
POST
Kobe
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just a french balcony. Not a problem, they are meant for ventilation, not a full balcony.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#48

Ah Yes A Face Full Of Fence

Ah Yes A Face Full Of Fence

ItsBerry07 Report

Add photo comments
POST
Niki A
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To be fair, this looks like property where a house was demolished, and the lot was likely sold with the neighboring property.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#50

A Kid’s Sims Model Irl ?

A Kid’s Sims Model Irl ?

gr8taleohenry Report

Add photo comments
POST
Kobe
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What is wrong with this? I suppose a lot of people would be very happy with this...

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT
See Also on Bored Panda