In pictures: China bans 'bizarre' architecture

 

The Chinese government has issued a new directive banning "bizarre architecture", and criticising some of the "oversized, xenocentric, weird" buildings in the country.
China has seen a number of architectural gems springing up in recent years, including one building shaped like a teapot and another that has been likened to a pair of trousers.
Under the new directive, buildings are to be "economical, functional, aesthetically
pleasing" and "environmentally friendly".
Here is a selection of the more adventurous buildings that have been developed.