ONE of the most stylish places art lovers could find themselves in, in 2008, may also be one of the most unexpected.

The crypt of the Metropolitan Cathedral will be hosting two major exhibitions during the Capital of Culture year, most notably featuring the life and work of the most famous and influential architect of the 20th century, Le Corbusier.

Charles Knevitt, director of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Trust, said: “This will be the first major exhibition of Le Corbusier’s work in Britain for more than 20 years and will appeal to a new generation of visitors. It features the architect as ‘Renaissance Man’ – artist, writer and polemicist as well as the single most influential designer and urbanist of the last century,”

RIBA will also be hosting the Stirling Prize from the crypt in November, during a dinner for 800 guests, which will be broadcast live on Channel 4.

Before then, the Design Show Liverpool will take place in June, promising to be “the most exciting design event the North West has ever seen”.

The crypt will showcase the best of product design, cutting-edge technology and stylish living.

There will be fashion shows, workshops and an interactive children’s play area.