Describe an old building that you like – IELTS Cue Card

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Sample Answer 1

Every city has certain buildings that have been there for a long time. Some of these buildings are abandoned and are on the verge of collapse or being demolished. Other old buildings are well-maintained by either private individuals or public organizations. I have always liked the look of old buildings, especially ones larger in size and have old architectural styles. One old building that I particularly like is a bungalow at the edge of my city, Kolkata.

The exact age of this building is unknown since it is an abandoned bungalow located on the outskirts of Kolkata. However, the locals believe that this building is more than 100 years old and was built during British rule in India. Although the building is old and wrecked in certain places, it still has a gigantic and imposing structure. The appearance of this building is awe-inspiring, and it also has a gorgeous courtyard in its front.

As per common knowledge, the building was meant for residential purposes, and many believe it was used by its owners until a few years ago. The last time I visited this building was two years ago and I found it was visited by other people who wanted to admire the beautiful architecture. A few of the residents of the area where this building is located believe that the government might demolish it in the near future.

The stunning design of this building and the antique appearance that it gets from old age and lack of maintenance is what I like about this building. It is a relic of the past and has certain qualities that hint at the era in which it was built. Such buildings always strike my fancy as they remind me of a time different from the present.

Sample Answer 2

Old buildings symbolise the culture and history of a nation. Many old buildings are considered historical attractions and they make great contributions to the economy of a country. Here, I’d like to talk about an old building that I like, which is the Mysore Palace, the pride of Mysore. The enticing architecture is a visual treat for everyone and stands as a prime attraction after the Taj Mahal. It is a magnificent edifice located in Mysore, Karnataka, India. Built-in 1912 for the 24th ruler of the Wodeyar Dynasty, the 109-year old Mysore Palace is an incredibly stunning example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. It is counted amongst one of the biggest palaces in the country. Although the descendants of the royal family continue to reside in one portion of the Mysore Palace, other parts of the palace are now state-owned and converted into a museum that attracts approximately more than six million tourists annually. During the 10-day Dassara festival, the Mysore Palace is spectacularly decked up in grand style with vibrant lights and a sound show. Also, stage shows are celebrated on the palatial grounds, which is followed by a parade of caparisoned elephants.  I was pretty impressed by the spectacle of the Mysore Palace, which is an enchanting sight to behold. Needless to say, the Mysore Palace, being an old building, has not lost its charm over the years.

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Vocabulary

1. Visual Treat

• Meaning: something that is impressive and enjoyable to look at or hear.
  Eg: It was a visual treat to watch the world-famous Singer Taylor Swift perform live. 

2. Entice

• Meaning: attract or tempt by offering pleasure or advantage. 
  Eg: My mother was enticed with the necklace put up on the billboard as it was offered at 10% discount. 

3. Decked up 

• Meaning: to decorate or add something to something to make an effect 
  Eg: The house was decked up with balloons and lights for the birthday party. 

4. Palatial 

• Meaning: resembling a palace in being spacious and splendid. 
  Eg: Independence day celebrations are held at the palatial grounds of the Red Fort. 

5. Charm

• Meaning: the power or quality of delighting, attracting, or fascinating others. 
  Eg: Cooper attracted the audience with his charm. 

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