# Sand Dune-Shaped HQs The New Arpt Headquarters is Functionally Curvaceous By Michael Hines | Published 2013-07-02 | World Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/arpt-headquarters References: [dezeen](http://www.dezeen.com/2013/06/29/arpt-headquarters-by-mario-cucinella-architects/) & [mcarchitects.it](http://www.mcarchitects.it/) The architectural fin seen here is the soon-to-be ARPT headquarters and is located in Algiers, Algeria. The Italian firm Mario Cucinella Architects designed the HQ for the [telecommunications company](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sophisticated-government-office). It is inspired by [traditional Mediterranean and Islamic architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/al-ain-museum). In addition to being interesting to look at, the ARPT headquarters' shape is also functional. The [curved shape](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/a-house-within-a-few-lines) helps direct hot air over the structure while its flat side traps cool night air inside. The new ARPT headquarters will be located on the outskirts of Algiers and will be situated next to a major road and a brand new park. Mario Cucinella Architects hopes the building will be a "reference point within a neighborhood and a city where tradition and modernity merge." ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.6/10 - Popularity: 53% | Activity: 16% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [World](https://www.trendhunter.com/world) > [Regional](https://www.trendhunter.com/regional) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Functionally Curvaceous Hqs:** Opportunity for architectural firms to design headquarters that not only catch the eye but also serve functional purposes like directing air flow and temperature control. - **Mediterranean and Islamic Architectural Inspirations:** Architects can draw inspiration from traditional Mediterranean and Islamic architecture to create unique and culturally rich buildings. - **Merge of Tradition and Modernity:** Designing buildings that blend traditional elements with modern aesthetics can create visually striking landmarks that reflect the spirit of the city. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Architecture:** Architects can explore innovative designs that are not only visually appealing but also incorporate functional elements for energy efficiency and sustainability. - **Telecommunications:** Telecommunication companies can consider unique and iconic architectural designs for their headquarters that make a statement and distinguish them from competitors. - **Urban Development and City Planning:** City planners can see the potential in using architecture to merge tradition and modernity, creating landmarks that contribute to the character and identity of the city. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sand Dune-Inspired Airport Roofs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/john-pedersen-fox.md) - [Pier-Side Dynamic Office Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/big-hq.md) - [Twisted Concrete Tower Structures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/alta-tower.md) - [Climate-Sensitive Pavilion Structures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/querkraft.md) - [Industrial Waterfront Headquarters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nderkleiva.md) - [Billowing Modular Art Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/curly-cube.md) - [Sophisticated Government Office Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sophisticated-government-office.md) - [Arched Garden-Topped Cultural Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hengqin-culture-and-art-complex.md) - [Angular Educational Facilities](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oarvemtta.md)