My favorite local junctions is the magic roundabout in Hemel Hempstead, UK [1]. A traffic circle (roundabout with traffic lights) would have also worked for this junction, but instead they used a ring of mini roundabouts, one placed at each entrance/exit road, connected to one another by short dual carriageway sections.

This allows for traffic to flow both ways around the circle, while forcing drivers on the "roundabout" to slow down to navigate the mini roundabouts, while not forcing people to stop completely for lights. In practice it works incredibly well, maintaining a steady flow of traffic even under heavy congestion. IMO it works far better than a controlled roundabout, and it a lot more fun!

It's also a favorite for driving test examiners...

[1] https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Hemel+Hempstead,+Hertfor...