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Describe a building you find interesting

Part 2 cue card

Describe a building you find interesting

You should say:

  • What the building is and where it is
  • What it looks like inside and outside
  • What you do there or have done there
  • and explain why you find this building interesting

You will have 1 minute to prepare and should speak for 1–2 minutes.

Sample answer (estimated band 7.5)

I'd like to talk about the Old Mariners' Conservatory in Harrowby, a small coastal town where I grew up. It's a building that always caught my eye because it's this odd but beautiful mix of Victorian brickwork and a modern glass extension. It sits right on the edge of the harbour, so from the little park in front you get reflections of sky and ships on its curved windows. Originally it was a watchtower and storehouse, but a local charity turned it into a community conservatory and gallery about twenty years ago. Inside, there's a narrow spiral staircase that leads up to a balcony with views over the water. The interior has potted palms and old nautical maps on the walls, which gives it a strangely cozy, slightly eccentric vibe. They run pop-up exhibitions and small concerts, which makes it feel really alive — not just a preserved relic. What really makes it special to me is the way it changes through the day: in the morning it's cool and quiet, perfect for reading; at dusk it's bathed in warm light and people gather on the benches outside. I have fond memories of meeting friends there after school, watching the lights come on over the harbour. On a practical level, the building shows how you can adapt historic structures for modern community use without erasing their character. That combination of history, beauty and everyday usefulness is why I find it so interesting.

Useful phrases

  • It sits right on the edge of the harbour, so from the little park in front you get reflections of sky and ships on its curved windows.
  • Inside, there's a narrow spiral staircase that leads up to a balcony with views over the water.
  • They run pop-up exhibitions and small concerts, which makes it feel really alive — not just a preserved relic.
  • What really makes it special to me is the way it changes through the day: in the morning it's cool and quiet, perfect for reading; at dusk it's bathed in warm light and people gather on the benches outside.

Part 3 discussion questions

  1. How important is it to preserve historic buildings in cities?
  2. What are the pros and cons of modern architecture in historic areas?
  3. Who should pay for the maintenance of public buildings?
  4. How do buildings influence people's sense of community?
  5. Do you think architects should prioritise functionality or aesthetics?

Part 1 questions: Local places

  1. Is there a building in your town you like to visit?
  2. How often do you go there?
  3. What do you usually do when you visit it?
  4. Are there any new buildings being built near you?
  5. Would you prefer to live in an old or a new building?

Estimated band scores for practice only. Not affiliated with or endorsed by IELTS, the British Council, IDP or Cambridge.