By: Jesi Tassava
Post-Modernism is an expansion of Modernism with more focus on functionality and also more focus on the design of the architecture. Everything built during this time period is very unique and interesting. “There is no room for structural ideas and conventional designs when speaking of postmodernism” (“Defining Postmodernism and its Characteristics”, n.d.). Many times, non-conventional aspects will be added to the architecture in order to convey some sort of message, whether it be irony or pluralism. Almost everything about post-modern architecture is irregular and non-conventional. The designs of all the different post-modern architects do not all follow one strict guideline as the to the architectural time period which can make defining post-modernism difficult. However, they are all very unique, focus on functionality, and are very artistic.
The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, Spain is a tremendous example of Post-Modern architecture. “It is a unique complex devoted to scientific and cultural dissemination which is made up of five different elements: the Hemisfèric (IMAX cinema and digital projections), the Umbracle (a landscaped vantage point and car park), the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum (an innovative centre of interactive science), the Oceanográfico (the largest aquarium in Europe with over 500 marine species) and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía (which takes care of the operatic programme). All five elements have features of post-modern architecture from the Hemisfèric IMAX theater being surrounded by a decorative shell, to the Oceanográfico which has several small buildings with big character.It is one of the best places in Europe to display the style of post-modernism.
The City of Arts and Sciences-Valencia
by FromTheNorth, used under 
City of Arts and Sciences (edit)
by A. Thompson, used under 
Sources:
Discover the City of Arts and Sciences. (n.d.). Retrieved 4 2, 2014, from Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias: http://www.cac.es/
Defining Postmodern Architecture and its Charcateristics. (n.d.). Retrieved 4 2, 2014, from Cockrams Surveyors: http://www.cockrams-surveyors.co.uk/blog/buildings/defining-postmodern-architecture-and-its-characteristics/