In this week's comments update readers are discussing the announcement of this year's Serpentine Pavilion, designed by Mass Studies founder Minsuk Cho.

Named Archipelagic Void, the 23rd pavilion is set to open in London's Kensington Gardens in June 2024 and will consist of five structures described as "islands", arranged in a star shape around a central void.

"What a mess, I love it"

Commenters weren't all immediately won over by the design. "Not grabbing me", was JZ's initial reaction. Although they did allow for some optimism, writing "hope it ends up a pleasant surprise."

In a comment that was upvoted five times, Ati-st suggested "Serpentine should just cancel the pavilion programme and stop wasting building materials if they aren't committed to doing this properly anymore".

They continued "it's been a long while since they had anything inspiring there".

Souji was much less forgiving, declaring "this is just an eyesore".

However, JB embraced the designs, exclaiming "what a mess, I love it". Meanwhile, John argued that Cho's design was "much better than some in the previous years!"

What do you make of this year's Serpentine Pavilion? Join the discussion ›

"Humans are a horrible species"

Another story that got readers talking this week was about the impact that The Line megacity in Neom could have on birds.

The planned city in Saudi Arabia was highlighted as one of the most pressing conservation issues for 2024, due to the scale of The Line along with its planned mirrored facades, which have been highlighted as posing "a substantial risk to migratory species".

Readers largely shared this concern about the project. "Who knew a giant mirrored wall would have a big effect on wildlife," mocked Hosta.

Commenter J98A was also in disbelief. "Was this not considered before it was signed off? Or at least before the build began?" they asked. "Stupidly obvious."

"The first thing I thought about when I saw this design was the birds," wrote Henry. "Maybe it should be re-rendered to include splatters and bird corpses...or just not built," they suggested.

For JZ, this all led to the simple conclusion that "humans are a horrible species".

Do you agree? Join the discussion ›

"Yes yes yes. At last. This is the holy grail"

Also stirring up interest in the comments section was an interview with former Ferrari-designer Lowie Vermeersch about Komma, a new type of micro vehicle designed to take up less space on roads and use less materials to manufacture.

Some readers were on board with the idea. "With climate change, there could be a huge paradigm shift in personal and public transportation," mused Dik Coates.

Adrian James was impressed by the design, declaring "yes yes yes. At last. This is the holy grail". Colin MacGillivray agreed and dubbed it "the future of urban transport".

However, on the other side of the argument, Marc Sicard wrote "almost as much material as a car for the same functionality as a bike". They concluded, "ridiculous, and no thanks".

Could this be the future of urban transport? Join the discussion ›

Comments Update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "What a mess, I love it" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a compact infill home in Dublin with red brickwork and perforated metal panels, completed by Irish architecture studio Gró Works.

Located on Dublin's southern perimeter, the home was designed to reflect both the nearby Victorian redbrick terraces and the more "utilitarian" quality of the backstreet it overlooks.

"This won't be utilitarian enough for the functionalists" 

Several commenters were won over by the industrial feel of the design. D Bannon called the project "a striking structure and a beautifully designed home".

"Beautiful project, congratulations to all involved," echoed Gary Tynan. Commenter Tony M was also a fan of the project, writing "I like this building, in particular, the visible roof beams".

However, JB warned that "this won't be utilitarian enough for the functionalists". They continued: "this architect will have their modernist ticket revoked if they don't smarten up and strip back".

Meanwhile, for JZ, there was too much going on: "so many moves in a small project. I appreciate each one separately but all added up, I think they reached a tipping point".

Can you see yourself living in this Dublin home? Join the discussion ›

"Is there a Londis? I don't see a Londis. Where will I get milk?" 

One story causing a stir in the comments section this week was mega-project Neom's reveal of Aquellum, an "ultra-luxury upside-down skyscraper" inside a mountain, designed by architecture studios LAVA and Name Architecture.

Dezeen commenters were quick to see the "dystopian" themes of the latest Neom project. "All these Neom renders are going to be a great source of material for the next Black Mirror series," wrote Gytis Bickus.

Zea Newland agreed, replying "wouldn't it be hilarious to find out that Neom was actually a viral campaign to promote a dystopian science-fiction movie," while Scott Chegg branded it "the stupidest one yet", adding "Neom is just a meme".

Muckers270 had other concerns, asking "is there a Londis? I don't see a Londis. Where will I get milk?"

On the other side of the argument, MA Milián felt the design had been heavily critiqued out of spite. "All the negative and terrible, harsh criticism is mostly from Americans who are jealous," they wrote in a comment that was downvoted five times.

What do you think of Aquellum? Join the discussion ›

"Looks like a stack of children's blocks" 

Also providing plenty of fodder for commenters this week was a skyscraper made up of 13 staggered cube volumes designed by Portuguese studio OODA for the Hora Vertikale residential development in Tirana.

Some commenters were unsure. "I like each block individually," wrote Leo. "Stacking them seems less convincing," they added.

"Another Jenga-inspired building," wrote John Lakeman, while Souji wondered "why the need to create the feeling of uneasiness? Cool for concept art or a video game, not for an actual city".

But despite this, the project had its fair share of admirers as well as detractors, with commenter Frank branding it "very interesting work".

Rob Rohena was full of praise, writing "I love this, very whimsical and unpretentious – looks like a stack of children's blocks". What's more, they felt it was "a nice departure from the overly gaudy luxury Manhattan skyscrapers or bland glass box office buildings".

Does the OODA design work for you? Join the discussion ›

Comments Update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "So many moves in a small project" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing the news that Saudi mega-development Neom has unveiled plans for a coastal town on the Gulf of Aqaba.

Called Norlana, the town will be designed by architecture studio 10 Design for 3,000 residents in the northwest of Saudi Arabia as part of a wider cluster of Neom developments.

"No one has 'designed' anything here"

Commenters reacted to the latest plans added to the Neom development. "This is the dystopian future we've all been warned about," cautioned Tadeusz Szewczyk (Tad Chef).

Tom Roberts was also concerned, writing "I have to ask if anyone would really want to live in these desolate locations". They added, "there is no sense of community, only isolation".

Meanwhile, Alfred Hitchcock deduced that the whole thing was "gibberish – no one has 'designed' anything here".

Adding some nuance to the comments section, Rob Rohena acknowledged that the design was "cool and imaginative – feels like a Star Wars set." However, continued to say "feasible...? I guess anything is possible with enough money and human rights violations".

Do you agree? Join the discussion ›

"Genuis, bravo!" 

Readers had mixed opinions about Design Acadamy Eindhoven graduate Yoojin Chung's project Capturing Qi.

Chung's project pokes fun at the western approach to feng shui with a trio of digital devices that offer a quick fix to positive qi.

Some readers were full of praise for the project. "Genuis, bravo!" exclaimed Tim Kennedy. This sentiment was echoed by Marius who wrote "love it, bravo Yoojin".

However, not all readers were convinced. "Please tell me this is a joke, it's too early in the year for peak silliness," commented Mark Gibbs.

Ken Steffes also wasn't a fan and felt that "these man-made devices are a visual distraction from nature and the natural environment".

Genuis or silly? Join the discussion ›

"Is there any end to the sheer naffness and tack?" 

Also sparking debate in the comments section this week was the news that Mercedes-Benz and developer Binghatti have revealed plans for a supertall skyscraper in central Dubai.

The car company's first branded residential tower will reportedly be 341 metres high and close to the Burj Khalifa.

Commenters were unanimous in their reactions to the skyscraper, calling it "crass" and "naff".

In a comment that was upvoted seven times, Chris Rogers joked "Dubai-based developer Binghatti...more like BLINGhatti".

Asif Farooqui was unimpressed and called the project "crass on every level". Ralph Kent was in the same boat, asking "is there any end to the sheer naffness and tack?".

Apsco Radiales advised Mercedes that they should "stick to making cars" and Ken Robertson was despairing begging "please, please stop!".

Should Mercedes stay in their lane? Join the discussion ›

Comments Update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "Gibberish – no one has 'designed' anything here" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing Zaha Hadid Architects' Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Centre on an artificial lake in China.

The centre is characterised by its four angular wings with sculptural steel canopies and its sweeping roofscape, which Zaha Hadid Architects modelled on the chevron-shaped flight formations of migratory birds in southern China.

"A metastasized Sydney Opera House" 

Some readers were unconvinced. "Too many notes," wrote Heywood Floyd.

Deep State thought "this kind of ostentatious formalism is completely out of step with the zeitgeist, and it's even worse to invoke some sort of natural inspiration".

Meanwhile, JZ likened the design to "a metastasized Sydney Opera House"

Some commenters were in favour of the design. Walter Astor felt that "the design of the building stands successfully on its own architectural and even sculptural merits". But he argued that "references to migratory birds as an influence is entirely unnecessary".

Henry wrote "wow, I'd love to visit this building". JZ, meanwhile, said that "it's going to weather like hell" but added that "the basic moves here are better than the average for ZHA".

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"A disruptor that appears to polarise people"

Commenters were divided over the news that Tesla's long-awaited Cybertruck has been officially unveiled and is now appearing in showrooms across the USA.

Some readers, like Zeglar Fergus, thought Tesla's Cybertruck was simply "very cool".

On the other side of the argument, Apsco Radiales made their views clear, writing "Cost? Ridiculous. Range? Silly. Practicality? Non-existent. Style? Ghastly. Next...!"

Bunkermentality had safety concerns, stating "this vehicle shows the total disdain of its driver for vulnerable road users such as cyclists or pedestrians".

However, Jãnis took a step back to consider that "Cybertruck surely is a disruptor that appears to polarise people".

They continued to say "I do not need or like pick-up trucks, but find the Cybertruck cool – cannot see myself having one, but purely from a design perspective".

Cool or ghastly? Join the discussion ›

"Unreal!" 

Another project that got readers talking this week was the plans for Tencent Helix, a quartet of twisting office towers joined at the base, designed by architecture studio Büro Ole Scheeren for tech company Tencent in Shenzhen.

"Unreal!" exclaimed Ken Steffes. "Hands down the Tencent Helix is the 2023 winner," they continued.

"Chonky," wrote JZ, while Watchmen asked "object or cake?".

Meanwhile, Tim called it "a blob of a building", and Dwg thought it "might look better untwisted".

Twist again? Join the discussion ›

Comments update 

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussion on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from the last seven days. 

The post "A metastasized Sydney Opera House" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing Danish studio BIG's design for a luxury residential building with cascading terraces, which will form part of the Ellinikon city masterplan near Athens.

Named Park Rise, the building will contain 88 apartments stacked in a staggering arrangement of two gently curving wings, the tallest of which will rise to 50 metres.

"Feels like it's aimed at Instagram"

Readers were largely unimpressed. "Why do most of Bjarke Ingels' projects feel like style over substance?" asked Alfred Hitchcock. "Just looks like shape-making – this is not architecture", they wrote. "It's all a bit superficial and feels like it's aimed at Instagram."

However, Franky four fingers suggested that BIG's design approach was based on equality for residents. "There isn't a class of 'haves' with outdoor terraces and sunlight and a class of 'have nots' that live in shadows without an operable window," they argued.

Commenter MKE Tom could appreciate both sides of the argument. "If we are critiquing this project on its uniqueness and newness, it falls short," they wrote.

But on the other hand, "if it is based on the developers brief to make them as much money as possible by providing views and balconies, then they have done a good job", MKE Tom added. However, they made their stance clear by adding "do I like it? No."

What do you think of BIG's design? Join the discussion ›

"Voluminous and full of natural light" 

Readers were full of praise for a low-energy London home designed by local architecture studio Hayhurst and Co that went on to be named RIBA's House of the Year.

"Voluminous and full of natural light," wrote JZ. "Great palette materials and colors," they added.

For Marius, the project was "very well done – a grand place without any ostentation", while Don Bronkema thought it was "praiseworthy – especially the green chroma".

Meanwhile, Alfred Hitchcock called it "highly commendable" but did think it could have been "a bit more cosy" and that "parts of it look quite flimsy and roughly made".

Are you a fan? Join the discussion ›

"Great in Vegas, not in London" 

A story sparking debate in the comments section this week was the news that Michael Gove is believed to be considering calling in the planning application for the Populous-designed MSG Sphere in Stratford after Sadiq Khan blocked it earlier this month.

The planning application had been blocked by Khan over fears the venue would cause "unacceptable harm to hundreds of residents", his spokesperson told Dezeen.

Commenters were split in their reactions. Zea Newland was baffled by the news. "Locals hate it, experts recommend rejecting the project, and the mayor complied with expert opinion but Michael Gove needs to have the last word? What's in it for him?" they wondered.

Other commenters responded with some potential incentives. "Evil" wrote Nimmo, "money" suggested BardofAvon, "and power" added LNDCNTMPRY.

Prado Sellinder thought "this kind of thing is great in Vegas but not in a city like London" and asked "can you imagine this in Paris? Ha."

There was also concern for the impact on Stratford locals. "The globe is metres away from apartments," wrote Octavia. "The people of Stratford will bear the cost of this development, without reaping any of the benefits," they added.

However, some readers were in support of Gove's decision. Recce Chadwick wrote "I hope he does override it and it gets built". They continued "I must say the UK public is extremely miserable and always complaining about anything new".

To build or not to build? Join the discussion ›

Comments Update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.  

The post "Feels like it's aimed at Instagram" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing an extension of media company Warner Bros' headquarters in Burbank, completed by LA architecture studio Gehry Partners.

The complex features two distinctive facades – glass intended to evoke the form of icebergs is interspersed with steel facades modelled on the art deco-style buildings of early Hollywood.

"The dystopian corporate hellscape building is finished"

Some readers weren't fully convinced by the design. "Whether you reference it as an iceberg, rock formation, or crystal cluster, it is still a boring, heavy-handed clunker," wrote Marius.

"Ah yes, the dystopian corporate hellscape building is finished," said Richard Nelson. "Do you like it, corporate overlords?" they asked.

Daniel Shirk was a little less scathing. For them, the complex was "pleasant but nothing great – Gehry on autopilot".

Pleasant or hellish? Join the discussion ›

"The overall effect is intriguing"

Readers struggled to reach a consensus about the Azabudai Hills development in Tokyo by Heatherwick Studio, which is defined by curving roofs topped with greenery.

There was too much going on for Idracula, who asked "what am I looking at?". "Too many parts to this puzzle," they concluded.

Marius chimed in to say "Italian pizza toppings are kept simple to showcase their quality – grand philosophy". The project also left a bad taste for Blau, who thought "the whole thing is heinously overcooked".

Adding some nuance to the discussion was JZ. They acknowledged that "it looks like a mess and will require an immense amount of maintenance". However, ultimately they resolved that "the overall effect is intriguing".

Meanwhile, Heywood Floyd reminded their fellow commenters that "we've certainly seen more offensive ideas executed less confidently". They went on to say: "I feel like everyone is just pilling on Heathwerwick at this point".

Which side are you on? Join the discussion ›

"Diamonds, on Park Avenue? Groundbreaking" 

Readers were also discussing the news that Foster + Partners has completed the framing for JPMorgan Chase headquarters at 270 Park Avenue.

"Diamonds, on Park Avenue?" asked Franc Lea. "Groundbreaking" they mocked.

Ken Steffes was also unimpressed by the design's lack of originality: "Wow, another steel and mirrored glass box with an exoskeleton – how creative".

"It's big, that's for sure" commented Souji. However, they thought "the design is so weak – switching the old SOM building for this is a shame".

Do you have a different take? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "Do you like it, corporate overlords?" asks commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing an aluminium-disc-topped pavilion in Melbourne, Australia, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando.

Created as the Japanese architect's first-ever project in Australia, the concrete structure is the 10th MPavilion in the city and was intended to be a space to reflect on the surrounding Queen Victoria Gardens.

Readers took opposing views in the comments section.

"If you know anything about concrete, you know this is extraordinary"

Some commenters critiqued Ando's work as a knock-off of architect Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona pavilion.

"Absolutely uninspired," wrote Philip. "Mies gave us the Barcelona pavilion 100 years ago and this is just a clumsy copy".

Tom Roberts was similarly minded, saying: "It is no Barcelona pavilion, which it tries so hard to emulate."

Alfred Hitchcock felt that Ando had let his usually high standards drop. "How dull, lifeless and frankly lazy coming from an architect who has previously designed so many masterful works," they wrote.

However, other commenters were totally blown away by the "masterpiece".

"Pure and essential Ando – a masterpiece and another symbolic signature from maestro Tadao," wrote Pa Varreon.

"Masterful, the work is just stunning" echoed Mr Marsden. "If you know anything about concrete, you know this is extraordinary," they wrote.

Clumsy or masterful? Join the discussion ›

"A delicate box" 

Another project that got readers talking this week was Edge House by Studio Prototype, a house with a hexagonal footprint built in an area of Amsterdam with relaxed planning regulations.

Milton Welch thought it "looks like a delicate box".

"The site is awkward, but the house is even more, for no reason," commented Souji. "A mess of sharp corners with too much glass," they added.

Alfred Hitchcock felt the same, writing "imposing a geometric form like this has certainly made for some awkward-shaped rooms and spaces". They went on to argue that "the project looks like a design mistake".

However, Apsco Radiales felt this was a bit of an exaggeration: "A design mistake? Bit harsh, I think. I could live in it – the materials and workmanship look good".

Could you live in this hexagonal house? Join the discussion ›

"Yet another vapid atrocity the world doesn't need"

Dividing commenter opinion was the news that Saudi Arabian mega project Neom has revealed its latest region, Epicon, a tourist destination that will feature two jagged skyscrapers by 10Design.

"Just why?" asked Jacob Volanski in a comment that was upvoted eleven times. "How on earth are they trying to sell this as 'sustainable'? What on earth are these pointless horizontal spikes?"

"The pointiest, most pointless architecture I've beheld in a while," wrote Jim Angrabright in agreement.

According to Steve Hassler, it is "yet another vapid atrocity the world doesn't need".

One of the only readers to give some balance to the critique was Igor Pismensky who said "love the look, but I won't be around when it's all completed (if ever)".

Do you agree? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "If you know anything about concrete, you know this is extraordinary" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a house in Sydney with a "playful and textured" facade made from reclaimed materials and broken bricks.

Called 19 Waterloo Street, Australian studio SJB designed the building to replace a damaged structure on the compact site in the city's Surry Hills suburb.

Commenters largely thought that the building fit the bill.

"This home is a delight"

"Clever, playful and delightful use of a tight urban site," wrote AlfredHitchcock. "It fits right in, whilst also making quite a lot of noise!"

Jacob Volanski was equally enthusiastic, writing "this home is a delight – full of personality without forgoing thoughtful organisation". They went on to add "that shower with the terrazzo, skylight and foliage? Dreamboat status".

Leo simply wrote "this is quite daring, I love it."

Alexander admitted that they had a change of heart: "I was going to say this is a mess but actually, it has grown on me". They concluded that "the interiors work well and it feels both solid and liveable".

"Feels a bit like Peter Barber on LSD," wrote Chris.

Tripping or tremendous? Join the discussion ›

"Like an awkward blind date"

A project which received less praise from commenters was this minimalist glass extension which Greenaway Architecture added to a 15th-century thatched cottage next to Farleigh Hungerford Castle near Bath, UK.

Readers generally liked the extension in isolation but thought it didn't fit with its context.

As AlfredHitchcock put it, "the extension itself makes a wonderful garden room, but it's an uncomfortable addition to the historic building."

"The more I look at this addition, the more I wish it was in a cottage style," echoed Chip Lynch. "Not every building needs a contemporary touch – wouldn't it have been nice to see a cozy porch rather than a glass cube?"

JohnMarix was less forgiving, writing "seems appallingly incongruous to me".

Meanwhile, for, Maria, the combination of old and new was "like an awkward blind date".

Do you agree? Join the discussion ›

"Wonderful, imaginative stuff"

Also igniting debate in the comments section this week was The Hoxton Mule, a playschool and apartment in east London designed by local practice Sam Jacob Studio.

Some commenters were impressed by the "eclectic" design, while others thought it was "upside-down thinking".

"Wonderful, imaginative stuff," declared Thom Chesshyre.

Zea Newland called the building "cute" and suggested that "some splashes of colour would have completed the PoMo revival".

However, other readers took a more blunt view.

Commenter M was concerned about having "an external staircase in a rainy climate and concrete flooring in a playschool". They added "this is upside-down thinking".

For IDRACULA, the building was best described as "an architectural joust".

Where do you stand? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "Like Peter Barber on LSD" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a large concrete home in California designed as a "modern ruin", with architecture by Masastudio and interiors by Kelly Wearstler.

The home, which is laid out like a "village" of open and enclosed spaces, was designed for clients who are avid art collectors and have a deep appreciation for contemporary architecture and design.

However, some commenters felt the project was overly extravagant and lacking design direction.

"Lacking any personality"

"With that amount of money, this is really the best you could come up with?" asked Jacopo.

JZ concurred calling the project "excessively expensive".

AlfredHitchcock thought it was "far too tasteful and lacking any personality" and compared it to "an exercise in thoughtless spending and overindulgence".

Commenter Saddened also wasn't a fan of the extravagant scale of the project, describing it as a "template for bad American taste, amplified by an endless budget".

But Ulisses Papa came to the project's defence, commenting that "seldom have I seen a more resourceful, beautiful and serene project being more criticised as in these comments."

Expensive or resourceful? Join the discussion ›

"Perfect location for this dynamic structure" 

Readers were divided about the news that Danish architecture practice 3XN has been selected to create a stepped retail building along Baltimore's Inner Harbor.

Design Junkie thought it was a "really cool shape" and Ken Steffes suggested that it was the "perfect location for this dynamic structure".

However, commenter Zee was unfazed by the waterfront structure, exclaiming "just a few curved walls, meh!"

Meanwhile, Peter McK was frustrated about the site decisions. "Once again demolishing a perfectly fit building to create iconography" they lamented.

What's your opinion? Join the discussion ›

"A piece of Las Vegas in downtown Singapore"

Also receiving mixed reviews in the comments section this week was architecture studio WOHA's "garden hotel" in Singapore with planted pool terraces cut into the building's rectangular form.

Ati-st praised the studio's work writing "these guys are experts in using plants as architectonic elements."

Other commenters were similarly impressed. Chip Lynch felt that "it certainly would be nice to overlook the open green spaces from your room in a city setting like this".

However, AlfredHitchcock was struggling to make up their mind. "A piece of Las Vegas in downtown Singapore," they said. "In some ways, it's really quite wonderful, but in other ways it's so indulgent."

"It's certainly more Caesars Palace than Raffles – designed to cater to the flamboyant rather than the sophisticated," they added.

What are your thoughts on the garden hotel? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "Lacking any personality" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing news that architecture studio BIG has completed its first supertall skyscraper in New York City and debating a minimalist pink house in Mexico by César Béjar Studio.

Called The Spiral, BIG's latest completed project in New York reaches 314 metres (1,031 feet), making it a supertall skyscraper.

Located along the High Line, the 66-storey building gets its moniker from a series of stepped terraces wrapped around its exterior.

"There's something truly cynical about this work"

Dezen readers were quick to give their opinions about the project in the comments section.

"Just what the city needs: more unused office space during record-low occupancy rates," wrote BillH11103. "Meanwhile, no one can afford to live in the city anymore. Brilliant!"

"There's something truly cynical about this work, IMHO," commented Frank. "Bjarke continues to toss out this 30-second, back-of-a-napkin, copy-paste-array diagram stuff and people keep buying it."

In a comment that was upvoted 10 times, Jacob Volanski wrote "for a firm that prides itself on its 'environmentally responsive' architecture, this glass monolith with some greenwashed terraces is a major disappointment".

However, commenter Hmm was pleasantly surprised by the finished project."This did not look good in the renders – it seemed like just another bland and uninspired Lego tower trying too hard to be cool," they recalled.

"But I think it turned out really well. The proportions work, the detailing seems to be on point and fits in rather well – quite restrained without silly gimmicks," they added.

Do you like the latest project from BIG? Join the discussion ›

"The perfect pink"

Another project that got readers talking this week was César Béjar Studio's minimalist pink house sandwiched between two buildings in Culiacán, Mexico.

Some Dezeen readers were won over by the colour scheme.

Edward Sheng found the "white interior calm" and Ken Steffes described the house exterior as "the perfect pink." But not all commenters were in agreement.

"I love the minimalism of the exterior," wrote Milton Welch. However, the "interiors appear a bit hazy and claustrophobic due to coloured daylight coming through the tinted glass and diminishing the benefits of the white interiors", they added.

Puzzello stated "I could not live in a house without a visual relationship to the exterior from the interior".

JZ chimed in, writing "I'm always captivated by the way light can be manipulated, but I agree with you. Emotionally, I need to see some blue sky, perhaps some clouds and some green."

Calming or claustrophobic? Join the discussion ›

"I love when something is so good that I'm mad it wasn't my idea"

Also on commenters radar's this week was the story that Canadian designer Omer Arbel has created a home in British Columbia with expressive pillars made from concrete poured into fabric.

The columns run through the house, with some approaching 10 metres (32 feet) tall, fluted at the base before extending upwards into an expansive "lilypad" shape.

Mark Zudini was impressed. "Love the spaces and light – overall, inspiring," they wrote.

In the same boat was Rob Rohena. "Wow. Beautiful. I love when something is so good that I'm mad it wasn't my idea."

However, some other readers weren't so quick to celebrate the project.

Jb reckoned that "the 'expressive pillars' are fun and intriguing but they clash with the dour, modernist aesthetic."

George Panagos was less forgiving, writing "well, that's a whole lot of concrete for a thoroughly claustrophobic and unattractive bunch of pillars."

Which side are you on? Join the discussion ›

Comments update 

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In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a trio of "luxury boutique hotels" unveiled as part of the latest Neom region in a scenic valley in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia's Neom project has announced Leyja – its fifth region – that will be connected to the forthcoming Trojena ski resort via a 73-kilometre hiking trail, which is also being built as part of the wider Neom project.

"Not architecture"

Planned projects for Leyja include a mirrored hotel by Shuan Killa, a rock-shaped hotel by Mario Cucinella (above) and a stepped cliffside hotel by Chris van Duiijn (below). Readers raced to the comment section to debate the latest Neom news.

Ken Steffes argued that "the beauty of this site is that it is untouched by man. These structures will only destroy nature and everything that lives around it."

"Beauty comes from nature, not architecture," they added.

Murial Brugman echoed the sentiment when they asked "why can't they just leave it alone and untouched?"

"Not architecture," declared HeywoodFloyd in a comment that was upvoted 10 times.

Meanwhile, commenter Glenn Dungan was torn, saying "I want to like this. It's straight out of Dune. It's wonderful, but I just can't."

"That large super-villain hotel with the grand staircase? It's gorgeous but absolutely impractical," they continued.

However there was no doubt for Jessica Tuboltsev, who called the project "Amazing!! It is amazing to see what can be done when money is not a problem".

Which camp are you in? Join the discussion ›

"Elegant, sober architecture"

Another project stirring up discussion amongst commenters this week was about Arsenit's one-legged "treehouse" nestled in an Estonian pine forest. It features a large cantilever that elevates the living space 4.25 metres above the ground and creates a sheltered outdoor space.

On one side of the argument, pa varreon called it "elegant, sober architecture – a beautiful love-nest for tree lovers".

Commenter Leo was unsure, saying "the sheltered outdoor space doesn't seem to be very used or useful".

However, they balanced this critique by adding "I do like the design – the resulting volume is eye-catching".

Others took a less generous view. "A lot of effort for a tight double-bed container – strange result," commented Marius.

Strange or elegant? Join the discussion ›

"Abstract, arbitrary, meaningless"

Readers weren't convinced by OMA's flexible cultural events space in Manchester, called Aviva Studios.

Dutch studio OMA designed a faceted corrugated metal theatre building adjoining a regular concrete-clad structure. The cladding materials were chosen to reference the site's industrial history.

"No integration, no sympathy, no way!" exclaimed Ken Robertson. "An alien building looking like a recently landed alien craft."

Meanwhile, Ati-st wrote "eww", and suggested "it's like an old TV dumped in the garbage."

For Jb, OMA's work was best summarised succinctly as "abstract, arbitrary, meaningless".

But not all commenters were so quick to write off the project. Marius interjected that it is "probably a fine, needed and well-studied program", adding that it "looks like the content inside is well executed".

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature our best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "The beauty of this site is that it is untouched by man" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a visitor centre hidden within a 100-year-old Greek vineyard.

Architecture practice K-studio buried the visitor centre in the stepped stone terraces of the vineyard, which is located on the Greek island of Samos. The project, called Liknon, was created for drinks company Metaxa and includes a sequence of display and tasting rooms connected by stone steps and pathways.

"A modernised historic structure with a soul" 

Commenters were in awe of the vineyard project. "Looks like it was always there," wrote MrG. "Fits right in. Love it."

CharlieBing was similarly impressed. For them, the project was both "classy and interesting".

"Refreshing absence of a new, modern, 'look-at-me' winery building," wrote Marius. "Excellent, sensitive execution. The architect's sprezzatura is showing."

Ken Steffes thought it was "a modernised historic structure with a soul. Super!"

Were you also won over by Liknon? Join the discussion ›

"This is like the cupcake salesman criticising bread" 

Sparking fierce debate in the comments section was the news that British designer Thomas Heatherwick has taken aim at the "cult of modernist architecture" in a new BBC radio series. Heatherwick made the comments in a three-part series on BBC Radio 4 called Building Soul with Thomas Heatherwick.

"I think we're living through a global 'blandemic' in building design," Heatherwick told listeners in the second episode, aired on 10 October and titled The Cult of Modernist Architecture.

Commenter BBOB agreed with Heatherwick's critique. "Modernist architecture is a big mistake, and we see it dulling down cities all over the world."

They went on to say "most of my fellow architects don't know how to design a classical building. They only know how to do modernist architecture. The art is almost lost".

However, on the other side of the argument, several readers strongly disputed Heatherwick's critique of Le Corbusier.

"Blaming Le Corbusier is an old hat," argued Andrew Stys. "Post modernists have done it already, forty years ago when the critique might have been relevant".

"I may consider Heatherwick's opinion on Le Corbusier seriously if I see him designing visionary and affordable housing in London," they added.

In a comment that was upvoted 15 times, Joeyrobots wrote "Corb was at least trying to solve social problems. This is like the cupcake salesman criticising bread".

What do you make of Heatherwick's comments? Join the discussion ›

"Just sensational"

Another project which readers fell in love with this week was the Beato Convent Events Centre, an events space housed within a former convent in Lisbon.

"Really lovely," commented JZ. "The design team appropriately took the Hippocratic oath and did no harm in treating their patient."

Chris D thought the project was "beautifully done." They added "it's quite an art to achieve the integration of modern requirements so discreetly".

"Just wow – beautiful work," agreed CharlieBing  "The view of the second floor of the cloister with the herringbone tiles is just sensational."

However, commenter Souji wasn't so sure.

"Overall, this is a very good project, but does no one else find the paving of the cloister weird?" they said. "Like there is something missing? In some places, there are details missing which makes it feel too empty at times."

Are you a fan of Risco's renovation? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "The architect's sprezzatura is showing" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing renders of a supertall skyscraper designed by UK studio Zaha Hadid Architects for the Trojena ski resort at Neom in Saudi Arabia.

Designed to stand on top of a mountain overlooking an artificial lake, the crystalline skyscraper, named Discovery Tower, will be 330 metres tall.

"Elegant and monumental, this iconic tower will combine high-end retail, dining and the dream-like experience of living in the clouds," said the developer.

But not all commenters were convinced, with some dubbing it "horrendous" and "a fortress of solitude".

"This should be a crime" 

"It looks horrendous in that beautiful mountain background. As if you need a skyscraper in the empty desert," wrote A from W.

Petros commented "I am having trouble comprehending the environmental impact of building this thing. And I cannot find a single reason that would justify the effort and money to support the logistics."

This sentiment was echoed by steve hassler, who wondered "how this will contribute to degrading the surrounding nature". They added that "this should be a crime".

Nina Bond approved of the design but didn't agree that the structure should actually be constructed. "We saw it, and we love it...chapter closed," they said. "If we experienced it through this photo, it's done. We don't need it built."

Meanwhile, Paul Nathanson commented "I can't argue about practicality or technological virtuosity. However, I don't need to. It's beautiful. Period."

Do you agree? Join the discussion ›

"What a beauty!" 

Beauty was also on the minds of readers discussing Fohlenweg, a house in Berlin that London studio O'Sullivan Skoufogolou Architects created using the walls of an existing bungalow.

The three-storey family home, developed on the edge of Grunewald Forest, features a pale brick exterior divided by a band of limestone.

"What a beauty!" exclaimed dacian.

Scot M agreed: "Beautiful home, beautiful colour palette inside and out."

Tony 365 chimed in to ask "where is the bungalow?" before writing "kidding aside, it's a great-looking building. The woodwork looks fantastic. Brickwork solid."

However, not all readers were totally won over by the design.

"As an object, it is a failure," declared tom roberts. Although, they did acknowledge that "the interior has some moments".

Meanwhile, jb felt that "modernism obliterates the bungalow."

What are your thoughts on this Berlin bungalow extension? Join the discussion ›

"It looks as sickly sweet as a bag of skittles" 

Another skyscraper that got readers talking this week was the Shenzhen Women and Children's Centre transformed by Dutch architecture studio MVRDV.

Aiming to set an example for adaptive reuse in the city, MVRDV retained the majority of the original structure, completed in 1994 and made up of a 100-metre-tall tower.

A colourful gridded facade was added to a skyscraper to create the hotel and centre dedicated to the welfare of women and children, containing a library, auditorium, children's theatre, therapy rooms and staff offices.

"Really fun project," commented Jacob Volanski.

However, other readers were unsure about the bright colour palette.

Don Bronkema felt that "orange, pink and yellow conflict" and suggested: "paint over and delist whoever perpetrated this chromatic crime."

"Aka Jean Nouvel's La Marseillaise facade but with uglier colours," commented MRDRV.

While Whateverandeveramen thought "it looks as sickly sweet as a bag of skittles".

What do you think about the multicoloured facade? Join the discussion ›

Comments Update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "It looks horrendous in that beautiful mountain background" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed an underground house in the Netherlands and debated conservation groups' calls to save a 1960s stadium in Ahmedabad, India.

Groups including the Twentieth Century Society and World Monuments Fund made statements following the news that the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium, designed by Indian architect Charles Correa, is set to be demolished as part of Ahmedabad's bid to host the 2036 Olympics.

Commenters debated whether or not the stadium should be demolished.

"Icons come, icons go" 

On one side of the argument, Marius wrote "only a few of the best buildings survive long time tests; you can't keep them all".

Whateverandeveramen was unfazed by the idea of the stadium being knocked down, writing "icons come, icons go – even Wembley was demolished".

Commenter dwg was thinking about the bigger picture, stating "what I find really interesting is Western pseudo-intellectual organisations telling other parts of the world what they should do with their own buildings and infrastructure because of the perceived significance".

However, other readers were concerned about the environmental impact. "Demolishing a stadium to build a new stadium for an Olympics that you don't even know if you are going to host is not only wildly optimistic but extremely wasteful," wrote franky four fingers.

They weren't the only readers to side with the conservation groups. "There are many good reasons to save something: cultural, but also a lot of embodied carbon," commented Ronnie Murray.

To save or not to save? Join the discussion ›

"The metal cladding makes it look clinical and institutional"

Commenters were also split in their opinions about a 124-metre-long block of social housing in Paris clad in steel.

Designed by architecture studio Christ & Gantenbein in collaboration with Margot-Duclot Architectes Associes, the linear building is in the city's 15th arrondissement and contains 104 apartments split across five floors.

Think declared the building "rather beautiful", while Whateverandeveramen thought it was "so dreary".

"The metal cladding makes it look clinical and institutional," commented AlfredHitchcock. "It also singles the development out as being something different and not in a good way."

Ken Steffes was in the same boat, commenting that "it may look better in person, but the steel cladding facade on this structure makes it appear very cold and unwelcoming. Grey in a grey environment".

However, Croissant Day thought that Parisian social housing like this "looks ten times better than the luxury condos we build here in Vancouver and sell at $2,000 per square foot".

Dreary or beautiful? Join the discussion ›

"The control of natural light is masterful" 

Readers were delighted by a house that is partially buried underground to blend in with its rural surroundings in Eindhoven.

Appropriately called The House Under the Ground, the Netherlands home was designed by WillemsenU to "enhance the beauty" of its site and act as a retreat for the couple who own it.

Archi was all for it, exclaiming that "the control of the natural light here is masterful. Simple small moves can be dramatic".

Meanwhile, Marius called the project "subtle and gutsy". They continued that they thought it was a "lovely retreat, I want one. Gotta love Dutch".

For Jacob Volanski, the house was "a beautiful work, though I can't imagine what the cost per square foot turned out to be!"

However, commenter james felt that "the bedrooms seem cold (more underwater than underground)".

Are you a fan of the underground house? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days. 

The post "Icons come, icons go" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a house in the Hamptons by Diller Scofidio + Renfro with a sloping fibreglass roof and a glass facade.

The home, which was recently photographed by Iwan Baan, was completed in 2017 for Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit founder Julie Taubman and her husband, Robert Taubman.

"A truly stunning creation"

Commenters were overwhelmed by the scale and design of the project.

"The house is a truly stunning creation," wrote Stace A. "But it's also the kind of thing that doesn't welcome use and merely touching anything threatens its pristine-ness".

Walter Astor also had concerns about the longevity of the design. "I wonder if it will age well? Often these 'sculptural' houses do not stand the test of time."

Grinch liked the design but issued a word of warning, writing "fantastic design, but every project like this is emblematic of the fact that the world is going to hell in a handcart".

"Let's save this sort of wonderful exuberance for public projects that we can all enjoy, not just a few over-privileged people," they added.

Fdvz found the project to be an "over-the-top design with zero consideration for the environment".

Aigoual was damning in their assessment: "as if this extravagant, pompous, narcissistic, multimillion-dollar design is in harmony with its surroundings! This is just another example of what Eastern Long Island has become: a showcase haven for the one per cent who don't know what to do with their $$$."

What do you think of this unusual house? Join the discussion ›

"Long time coming and happy to see it finally arrive"

Commenters were more positive about a translucent-marble-clad box at New York's World Trade Center site. Located alongside One World Trade Center in downtown Manhattan, the Perelman Performing Arts Center by architecture studio Rex comprises a cubic structure with thin marble cladding.

Alex Kustow said they were "so excited by this and impressed with the wonderful result of such an exceptional series of challenges. I live in New York and can't wait to visit."

DWG was in the same boat saying: "I love the look of this. The entrance looks stunning!"

"I work around there in the daytime," commented Cordcutter. "It looks bland, but I've been leaving work around dusk and at nighttime it looks beautiful. Long time coming and happy to see it finally arrive."

Several readers celebrated the studio's choice of materials. "I was doubtful when I saw the renderings and glad I was wrong," wrote Kem Roolhaas. "Happy to finally see a building with marble backlit like that on the facade."

One of the few commenters unconvinced was JB, who wrote "surely respect for the memorial could have been achieved without creating a mausoleum? This is a joyless and indeed mournful edifice totally at odds with its contents."

Joyless or beautiful? Join the discussion ›

"People are going to die because someone wants to build an indoor mall in the desert"

Also on commenters' radars this week was an opinion piece by Dana Cuff in response to the recent documentary about The Line mega-project in Saudi Arabia.

Commenter's responded to Cuff's assessment that the documentary might be "architecture's kiss of death".

Kasimir reckoned that "Neom will make it into the history books as the death of 20th-century architecture," but they argued that "it doesn't mean architecture is dying, but architecture is transforming into something new".

Other readers echoed Cuff's concerns: "the women's voices are heard for just under two and a half minutes of the entire video," posited Tiger Lou. "This suggests the type of society one should expect from such a megalomaniacal project!"

On the other side of the debate Rob Rohena wrote "believe it or not, architects have very little leverage in their clients' ethics".

Zea Newland tried to put things back into perspective, writing "people are going to die because someone wants to build an indoor mall in the desert at all costs".

"Having a backbone used to be considered a strength. Now, it's seen as weak and annoying. Why?" they asked.

What do you make of Dana Cuff's argument? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "I wonder if it will age well" asks commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing the Štvanice Footbridge in Prague, which was designed as a "sculpture in the city".

Architects Petr Tej and Marek Blank worked with engineer Jan Mourek to create this minimalist bridge across the River Vitava in Prague, which was designed to resemble marble.

"A manifesto of modernity" 

Readers praised the minimalist design in the comments section, calling it "zen", "refreshing" and "simple".

"Zen and sober, a manifesto of modernity in a city famous for its Baroque architecture," wrote Pa Varreon.

Ajay Shah also celebrated the design, commenting "it is so refreshing to see a design that is so simple and clear in thought".

"Elegant simplicity best sums this beautiful bridge up," wrote orlandoa1, while Jan thought it was "nice to see a new bridge from which motor vehicles are excluded".

However, the design was overly simplistic for commenter M, who described the bridge as "sterile and dead."

Simple or sterile? Join the discussion ›

"Tried a couple of times to like this one, but can't"

Also on commenters' radars this week was the Ascentage Pharmaceutical Headquarters with patterned facades informed by Benzene rings.

New York studio OLI Architecture used parametric technology to design the decorative facades of this office complex in Suzhou for biotechnology company Ascentage Pharma.

The Ascentage Pharmaceutical Headquarters is spread across seven district buildings with facades informed by benzene – a molecule composed of six carbon atoms in a ring.

Gytis Bickus praised the design, exclaiming that it is "exactly what a pharmaceutical corp HQ should look like!"

Prado Sellinder was on the same page, stating "the facade reminds me of chemical bonds – looks great".

"A stunning series of buildings!" commented Mikee. However, they went on to question the concept, adding "Benzene is an odd reference though – it's highly carcinogenic".

On the other side of the debate, HeywoodFloyd commented that they "tried a couple of times to like this one, but can't," and Don Brokema shared the same sentiment, calling the project "butt-ugly".

Butt-ugly or Benzene beautiful? Join the discussion ›

"Is this the best a group of billionaires can come up with?"

Commenters reacted to a controversial concept for a new city in California unveiled by a group of Silicon Valley Investors named Flannery Associates.

The plan to transform over 50,000 acres of farmland into a city in Solano County has sparked widespread criticism from locals over Flannery Associates's quiet buying up of farmland.

In a collection of colourful illustrations, the city is depicted as a series of walkable neighbourhoods that the group said will offer "a chance for a new community".

"This project bears zero resemblance to any urban planning style whatsoever," wrote Steve C.

Several readers commented on the illustrations, with Menzo stating "those illustrations scream AI". Amber agreed and wrote, "these are not 'illustrations', but AI-generated images".

"The graphics style is the same as those wonderful British railways marketing posters from the 1930s. Is nothing sacred, or original anymore?" asked AlfredHitchcock in a comment that was upvoted five times.

"It's really quite pathetic how little imagination and original thought has gone into this, but quite typical of the world these days," they added.

Ming Cheng was more balanced in their assessment, arguing "it is admirable of our US friends to promote sustainable developments, putting cycling, walking and mixed-use development without cars at the forefront".

They continued by questioning if "this the best a group of billionaires can come up with? Instead of creating a new city, why not use their wealth, power and political influence to solve the problems currently facing existing cities?"

Do you agree? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.  

The post "A manifesto of modernity in a Baroque city" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing Wallmakers founder Vinu Daniel's "elitist" defence of unpaid internships.

The Indian architect and Wallmakers founder defended his position on unpaid internships, which he argues have an important educational benefit, following criticism on Instagram.

Daniel confirmed to Dezeen that people join his studio unpaid but said that he considered them to be students until they have gained the necessary skills in the sustainable construction techniques that his studio specialises in.

"Unfortunately, architectural colleges in India do not teach or practice sustainable technologies," said Daniel.

"Therefore, anyone who enters our practice is essentially a 'student' and we have to teach them our techniques. After learning, they become salaried members of the firm."

"People should boycott any architectural firm that uses free labour"

Readers pilloried Daniel's stance in the comments section, calling it "elitist" and arguing that "no person should work for free".

"Any work deserves a salary anyway – whatever the work is," wrote Pa Varreon.

Jacopo was similarly incensed: "No person should work for free ever," he said. "And nobody should expect it or consider it normal. People should boycott any architectural firm that admittedly uses free labour. Maybe things would then change a little."

He added: "Even if people come out from university unprepared, architects should ask for a reform of the university instead of penalising ex-students as it is not their fault."

Jacopo was far from the only commenter to argue that architectural education needs reform.

"The Indian architecture education system seems to be fundamentally broken," wrote Kasimir in a comment that was upvoted seven times. "On average per week, two Indian students and three recent graduates apply at our office, all of them not expecting to be paid. Apparently, they need to complete an internship to graduate. In India itself, to pay an intern seems to be almost absurd."

Colin_MacGillivray, meanwhile, thought that architecture students are caught between a rock and a hard place: "There's a dichotomy to be solved by every student or recent graduate. Pay money to learn little of value from an institution with often hopeless lecturers. Or pay nothing to and get no pay from an office that teaches the student what architects actually do."

What are your thoughts on unpaid internships? Join the discussion ›

"Dapper, comfortable, well designed"

Also on commenters' agendas this week was a "dapper" coastal house in Washington that "grounds itself to the earth".

Commenters hailed it as "a sober and elegant place to live".

"Lovely, aesthetically quiet house," wrote JZ. "1,700 square feet for what looks to be a four-person residence is just right and more people need to learn to live efficiently as such. The quality of the planning and generous glazing where it's needed makes this multiple times its actual size."

JEA was on the same page: "Really handsomely done. The plan shows how you can make an airy, open home without the bloat we so often see. And if this was mostly built by the clients, I'd like to hire them for my next project!"

Marius called the dwelling "dapper, comfortable [and] well designed", while Pa Varreon heralded it as "a perfect example of a deep homogeneity between inner spaces, surrounding context and overall landscape".

"Really nice," added Tony365. "I would gladly take the ferry over to stay there. Generous overhangs are good to see. I think it will only look better with time."

Do you agree? Join the discussion ›

"It's almost impossible to unionise an architectural firm"

The Wallmakers controversy wasn't the only employment story igniting the comments section this week. News that US labour organiser Architectural Workers United has filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge against Snøhetta divided commenter opinion.

The charges were announced last week by Architectural Workers United (AWU), a sub-division of the national labour union Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).

The AWU alleged that Snøhetta, which has US offices in New York and San Francisco, discriminated against employees during a recent union drive.

"Everything is about class," wrote IDRACULA in response to the news. "It's almost impossible to unionise an architectural firm. The field of architecture is so socially pretentious and unions are just so 'low class'."

"There's a huge divide between the principal upper-class owners of the company and the working-class employees that do all the work and heavy lifting," they added.

"It was meant to happen for a long time now," agreed Pa Varreon. "They get what they deserve to get. People like Wallmakers in India should also take note of this."

Other commenters weren't quite so pro-union.

"AWU alleged that Snøhetta ran a coordinated anti-union campaign," wrote Marius. "Well, duh. Didn't AWU run a coordinated union campaign, just like any union aggressively does? Why is one 'legal' and the other is not? [The] rights of employees cannot exist without the rights of the employers."

Apsco radiales was more measured in their assessment: "I see both sides to unions. They sometimes restrict what companies would like to do, but when there is exploitation, as is often the case in current architectural practices, they have a role to play."

"I've seen young grads work all-nighters and weekends without any compensation because 'we have a tight deadline, and we are already over budget, so let's put in an extra effort'," they added. "If it were to happen once, fine – shiet happens. But each and every job? Having a union would probably put an end to that nonsense."

To unionise or not to unionise? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "The Indian architecture education system seems to be fundamentally broken" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing an angular home in Portugal defined by stacked layers of warping glass and concrete.

Located at the highest point of the Portuguese city Leiria, Quinta do Rei was designed by local studio Contaminar to function like a watchtower and features long spans of windows that frame views of the surrounding landscape.

Commenters likened the dwelling to "a very interesting parking garage".

"A sculpture that should have stayed a sculpture"

"If the facade had been done with thin metal or wood blades, this would be a triumph," wrote Mr. Marsden. "But using those huge concrete ring beams has rendered it a complete disaster. It looks like a very interesting parking garage."

Kevin B was on the same page: "the interior photos look like a prison. Not sure how this is a machine for living. It really is just a sculpture that should have stayed a sculpture."

For Pa Varreon, Quinta do Rei's "nightmare" interior is merely a "challenge for open-minded clients and architects".

VKTR liked the design but issued a word of warning for the occupant, commenting "there is a lot I absolutely love here – that being said (and this is me being cheeky), it reminds me of those concrete brutalist viewpoint structures that always smell like urinals".

Christopher, meanwhile, thought the project was indicative of "our wildfire-proof future," while Marc Sicard had nothing but praise, saying "this is the kind of brutalism I can support. A bit unsettling, but very interesting, with a strange effect on the perception of size. An excellent work."

Which camp are you in? Join the discussion ›

"Deep breaths, people"

Also splitting opinion in the comments section this week was a pair of porcelain-clad skyscrapers on the Brooklyn waterfront. Designed by Selldorf Architects at the Domino Sugar Refinery redevelopment site on New York's East River, the twin skyscrapers have nearly reached their full height of 168 and 137 metres.

Commenters thought the towers, which will be the studio's first completed residential skyscrapers, a little too "beige" for Brooklyn.

"Imagine getting an opportunity to create architecture on this scale, with this budget and in this location, but proposing this," wrote Davvid. "This project is so painfully banal."

"Why did they choose to finish it with kitchen/bathroom cladding?" wondered Pa Varreon of the iridescent porcelain tile that will clad much of the skyscrapers' facade.

"Surely these awful things were designed by AI – no qualified human could be so unimaginative and insensitive," posited AlfredHitchcock, to which Joao Batista replied "where do you think AI steals its soulless designs from?"

Not all commenters were quite so pessimistic.

"Hard to say from these images but if the towers are as elegant as [Selldorf Architects'] smaller commissions, we should be just fine," wrote MKE Tom. "Deep breaths, people."

Do you think Brooklyn could do better? Join the discussion ›

"Beautifully lush"

One project commenters could reach a consensus on this week was The Edition group's first outpost in Italy, The Rome Edition.

Commenters like JZ thought the hotel was suitably "cinematic and sophisticated".

"I love these splashes of colour: emerald green curtains in the lobby, Yves Klein blue in the restaurant and that Jade bar, wow!" wrote LNDCNTMPRY. "A simple but elegant design approach, perfectly complementing the city of Rome."

M was similarly captivated by the hotel's Jade Bar, wondering "when can I move in?"

"Stunning re-use of a building," agreed Kevin B, while jb hailed it as "beautifully lush".

Apsco Radiales, meanwhile, was dreaming of a Roman holiday. "In spite of the hot summer and irresponsible tourists, I so badly want to go to Rome again!"

Is it "do as the Romans do" or don't, for you? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "This is the kind of brutalism I can support" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing an "elegant" rectangular house with circular garden terraces in São Paulo, Brazil.

Designed by Brazilian architect Denis Joelsons and aptly named Casa dos Terraços Circulares – or the House of Circular Terraces – the linear dwelling is embedded in a forested lot in São Paulo's suburbs. The round terraces were constructed with the soil excavated for the foundation, reducing the need for concrete in the site's landscaping.

Commenters marvelled at the architect's lightness of touch.

"Deserving of a Golden Pencil"

"Crazy how light the structure feels." wrote Bruno Lazaretti. "Like a box of matches over gravel. Plateaus remind me of coral reefs. Great project. Deserving of a Golden Pencil."

Laura Belik was in the same boat, commenting "linear orthogonal plateaus inside – composing the floorplan design while embracing the natural geography of the terrain – and circular plateaus outside, shaping the garden's original slope. Smooth play, good rhythm!"

Pa Varreon praised the project's "peaceful modernity" and admired its "subtle, sober and admirable proportions", while Camilo Gomide Cavalcanti Silva called it "simple, elegant and gorgeous".

One of the few commenters who was unconvinced was John harhay, who questioned whether the landscaping helped or hindered the existing trees on the site.

"Given the importance of the trees, it seems that two important rules were ignored" they said. "Firstly, do not build walls or do any construction within the drip line of the tree. Secondly, do not alter the grade within the drip line of the tree,."

They added: "it appears that one limb is dying. It won't be long for the rest."

Which camp are you in? Join the discussion ›

"Zoomers are always looking for shortcuts"

A story that found less consensus among commenters this week was Dezeen's interview with visualisation artist Charlotte Taylor, who argued that "not having architectural education makes you find different solutions".

Taylor is the founder of 3D-design studio Maison de Sable, where she collaborates with other 3D designers on renderings of imaginary, fantastical interiors and buildings.

"I didn't train in architecture at all," the designer told Dezeen. "I'd like to think that there's hope that you can get into building physical spaces through unconventional means."

Commenters weren't buying it.

"If you want to be an architect go back to school and become an architect," wrote Whateverandeveramen. "Or sit the equivalency exams in your country. There's more to it than making pretty pictures. Zoomers are always looking for shortcuts."

"So not having an architectural [education] means you can re-render Lina Bo Bardi's Glass House with superficial changes and pass it off as your own?" wrote Layla in reference to Taylor's work.

"To be clear, I don't think you need to be formally trained or licensed to be a great architect if you have the skills and clients. This is just a terrible example," they added.

Other commenters, like Clichy, defended Taylor's stance, positing that "the majority of projects presented on this site by qualified architects largely receive negative criticism from their peers".

"How exhaustingly predictable that so many people (men) are threatened by left-of-centre-thinking, innovation and creativity," wrote EB. "Opinions and comments such as 'shortcuts', 'go back and study' and 'untrained' are so indicative of why we need and celebrate designers like Charlotte."

Have you weighed in on the great education debate yet? Join the discussion ›

"Like Bob the Builder invaded a Malibu Barbie fever dream"

Also on commenters' radars this week was a "comical" hillside home in Los Angeles complete with a crane in the kitchen and a hot pink accessory dwelling unit.

Designed by architects John Friedman and Alice Kimm for their own family, the JArzm house – named using the first initial of every family member – takes the form of a white cement plaster envelope described as "neither box nor blob".

Commenters thought it was "like Bob the Builder invaded a Malibu Barbie fever dream".

"Throw every idea you've ever had into one building just because you can?" quipped AlfredHitchcock.

"It's all so incongruous," wrote Prado Sellinder. "Living here would drive me mad."

Jim Angrabright reckoned it was allegorical: "the pergola in mid-fall atop the ADU is a reminder of the precarious nature of talent."

ZZ, though, was able to see the project's potential, commenting "just imagine the belly flops you could do dropping from the crane into the pool".

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Like a box of matches over gravel" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing the completion of Brooklyn's first supertall skyscraper.

At 93 storeys and 325 metres tall, the SHoP Architects-designed Brooklyn Tower in New York is the tallest building in the borough. Though the mixed-use tower topped out in March this year, its intricate black and bronze facade was only recently completed.

Blackened steel panels run from the top of the skyscraper towards the bottom, where it meets the preserved, historic Dime Savings Bank at its base. Bronze and copper pilasters give definition to the black facade, creating a staggered appearance.

Commenters were split.

"A bit of Gotham about it"

Some thought the supertall skyscraper was a "beautiful" addition to the Brooklyn skyline, others gave it a "one out of 10".

"All it needs is the Eye of Sauron," wrote James Beckett, referencing the comparisons that some New Yorkers are making between Brooklyn Tower and the architecture of the Lord of the Rings films.

Chris saw a likeness between the tower and a different film franchise: "looks great and [there's] a bit of Gotham about it as well."

Floooo called the tower "one of the most beautiful skyscraper additions to New York in a long time", while Snessnyc agreed that "it most definitely is a striking landmark in the best way".

Other commenters weren't quite so generous in their comparisons. "A vertical castle: heavy, defensive, dominating," wrote Jesse Lockhart Krause. "Poor outcome. One out of 10 from me."

"This is a giant step backwards for Brooklyn," warned Jb, while Marius was curious to "see the developer's bottom line".

Future icon or present-day eye sore? Join the discussion ›

"Lots of pleasing quirks and character"

One project that commenters could agree on this week was a "refreshing" family home in Surrey with a steeply-pitched roof covered in red clay tiles.

"Good to see a new house designed in the traditional, vernacular manner, with lots of pleasing quirks and character," wrote AlfredHitchcock. "The staircase, gallery landing and timber partition are particularly lovely."

"This is rather nice and appears to settle restfully in the local context," agreed Smorgasbord. "Good to see some photography showing the house as lived-in, too."

Jb posited that "architecture informed by architecture is refreshing", while Jerry Dickman-Wilkes called the dwelling "wonderful and beautifully executed".

"It's nice to see more liveable places on Dezeen's radar," concluded Design Junkie.

Can you see yourself living in Middle Avenue House? Join the discussion ›

"Unbelievably gorgeous exterior material"

Also providing plenty of fodder for commenters this week was a kiln-like learning centre in Denmark designed by Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter.

While some commenters praised the centre's "gorgeous" exterior, others wondered whether it bore more resemblance to a "crematorium" than a kiln.

"Kiln-like indeed – it looks like a crematorium," wrote Tosh Fieldsend, while BBOB branded it an "awful-looking building".

"What a beautiful structure," allowed Danny De Jayeff. "Unfortunately, after looking at the interior photos of the light wells, it seems [that the] way they're being used doesn't really match with the more dramatic possibilities that a space like that commands. It looks like a common office interior and [is] quite disappointing."

But the project had just as many admirers as detractors, with JZ praising the "unbelievably gorgeous exterior material".

Design Junkie was on the same page and was "loving the mono-exterior, single-material cladding."

"This looks like a baker's paradise," concluded Niall. "Would love to visit."

Do you think it rises to the occasion? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "This is a giant step backwards for Brooklyn" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing an opinion piece by Matt Shaw that reflects on what went wrong with Thomas Heatherwick's Vessel, two years after it was closed following a series of suicides.

The Vessel, a 150-foot-high viewing platform in New York's Hudson Yards development, has been closed since July 2021.

Four people died by suicide in four different incidents at the platform; the fourth death coming just months after the structure reopened following temporary closure and the implementation of suicide prevention measures.

"The Vessel's demise can be traced back to its lack of public process," writes Shaw. "Built on private property, it never was subjected to, or benefitted from, any kind of design review process. A single client and single designer. This huge, embarrassing failure could have easily been prevented with even an ounce of community feedback."

"You should not expect public consultation to point out the health and safety risks"

Commenters largely agreed with Shaw's assessment that "the Vessel gives nothing back to the city".

"The Vessel is emblematic of what feels wrong about the entire Hudson Yards area," wrote Eric Schneider. "I can’t call it a neighbourhood because it lacks, entirely, any sense of place and just seems like an upscale open-air shopping mall where the rich can sit in traffic in their SUVs."

Elizabeth_NYC was on the same page, commenting "almost everything in Hudson Yards makes me despair. Compare it to the King's Cross development in London where they actually tried".

"Of course, it is also marred – and yes, I believe that to be the accurate word – by a Heatherwick intervention. But for the most part, it has urban goodies and people want to be there, not only to shop and eat," they continued.

But commenters were at odds over where the responsibility for health and safety lies.

"Why is it the architect's problem when people [commit] suicide?" wrote Vincent Ip.

"It is a crazy world that everyone condemns builders for buildings that can't prevent suicides," added Timothy Wang. "But we don't condemn weapons manufacturers for making guns that are designed to kill. Not sure if it is the responsibility of builders to prevent suicides."

Commenter Natalie added:

"I worry that articles [such as Shaw's] absolve architects from their moral responsibility to provide a building – or whatever the Vessel is – that is safe for the end-user," they wrote.

"While community consultation is a crucial part of the architectural process, you don't need, and should not expect, public consultation to point out the health and safety risks. This is the architect's role."

Despite its unfortunate history, some commenters were optimistic about the Vessel's future.

"While the tragic outcome of the Vessel may make it not 'functional', I'm sure some would argue that many other large-scale public artworks (some approaching this price tag to build) are also not 'functional'," wrote Vandra. "I'm still hopeful a solution can be found and the stairs can reopen."

What do you make of the Vessel two years after its closure? Join the discussion ›

"Like a stadium with a suit on – classy"

Also rife for debate in the comments section this week was a Colosseum-like stadium in Bath, UK, which British studio Apollodorus Architecture designed in response to a proposed redevelopment put forward by Bath Rugby.

The London studio's alternative scheme would feature an oval shape that references Roman amphitheatres – a style it believes would merge more organically with the context of the surrounding city than the proposed rectangular building.

Some commenters deemed the alternative design "absolutely charming", while others thought it was too "pastiche".

"The elliptical plan and a meaningful connection to the street to the east make a lot of sense," wrote Dwf. "As for the classical expression, it's quite difficult to argue against. Bath is mostly neo-neo-classical or Georgian revival and has always been a sort of theme park."

"Looks gorgeous! Best development proposal in the UK since Poundbury," declared TheManHimself. "So much better than much of the cold and hostile modern architecture being churned out since the 1950s."

Schrondingers Cat was also all in favour, saying: "it's like a stadium with a suit on. Classy. Leave it to the Decon cult to argue for an angular shardscape with shiny goo and large projectors."

But Ryan Peter Nolan disagreed, stating: "It's a copy-and-paste of every classical stadium and it's boring! It's giving Poundbury (which is tacky). Why not produce a more thought-provoking and modern interpretation? Do some actual work and give value to it."

Most commenters, though, agreed that "context is key".

"Very appropriate for the context. Most importantly it doesn't scream 'look at me!', which should be the rule for 99.9 per cent of all buildings," posited Apulia.

Copy-and-paste or charming reinterpretation? Join the discussion ›

"Sublime!"

One thing that commenters could agree on this week was the "beautiful execution" of an angular leadership centre in Rwanda by BE_Design.

Informed by the geometric patterns of Rwandan Imigongo art, the Komera Leadership Centre is comprised of a cluster of blocks each topped by an angular, zig-zagging roof.

The centre, which BE_Design's local office worked on with Rwanda Village Enterprises, provides spaces for health, education, and mentorship programs for young women, as well as community areas.

"Amazing project. Beautifully executed and the planning is really well-considered," wrote Mr Marsden.

Milos Mon called it "a lovely creation," while Rachael Evans simply wrote "sublime!"

"Absolutely LOVE this! Well done BE_Design," concluded Nicole Blair.

Are you similarly captivated by the Komera Leadership Centre? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post It is architect's role "to point out health and safety risks" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are debating a feature in our AItopia series that examines the question of whether AI technology will end up taking architects' jobs.

As investment bank Goldman Sachs predicts that AI could replace the equivalent of 300 million jobs globally across all industries and a survey by design technology firm RevitGods found that 55 per cent of US architects are "moderately concerned" about being replaced by AI, the debate around the impact of the technology on the built environment continues.

"It's an enormous issue that we need to try and deal with," New York-based designer Sebastian Errazuriz told features editor Nat Barker.

"People always say, 'but isn't AI just another tool?' Right now it looks like a tool, but the tool is getting really good, really fast – and the purpose of this tool is to think for itself."

But commenters aren't convinced that drastic change is right around the corner.

"AI will probably be very good at efficiently mass-producing more boring, soulless buildings"

"It's inevitable that more and more of architects' work will be replaced by AI," wrote Vince Cap. "The more the technology advances, the more tasks it will be able to carry out. Surely this won’t happen overnight. At least, I hope to make it to [my] pension."

"I think it's going to be a while," agreed Jon, while Tim thought that "based on any of the meaningless imagery presented by AI so far," architects were in the clear for the foreseeable future.

Joeyrobots believes AI is the least of our worries: "Of course, we all realise that we will actually lose our architecture jobs due to global economic collapse driven by climate change."

Other commenters, meanwhile, argued that the human touch will never go out of fashion.

"Well, if AI does take our jobs, it will expedite the process of the world becoming increasingly dull, boring, soulless and copy-paste," reasoned Gytis Bickus.

"If we have learnt anything from the last 100 years, it's that people are getting bored of soulless, glass cubes. There's been a shift toward craft, the hand-made and, most importantly, the human-made. AI will probably be very good at efficiently mass-producing more boring, soulless buildings, but I don't think that's what people want," they continued.

ScuffedShoes was on the same page, agreeing that "yes, it will put many architects out of a job, [but] not starchitects. AI will never replace a Frank Lloyd Wright or a Mies van der Rohe or any architect of unique vision."

Is the advancement of AI fatal for architects? Join the discussion ›

"Like a Serra crossed with a data centre"

Also providing plenty of fodder for commenters this week was the Morphogenesis-designed Surat Diamond Bourse in India, which has surpassed the Pentagon to become the world's largest office building.

Set on the outskirts of the city of Surat, the 660,000-square-metre building was designed as a "city within a city" to house the world's largest community of diamond traders.

Some commenters considered the project a "monstrosity", while others thought it sculptural.

"Totally gorgeous. Like a Serra crossed with a data centre," wrote Franc Lea.

"Wonderful," agreed Anunay Kumar. "After all, it is diamonds which are the central theme."

Others took a less generous view.

"A building that has no intrinsic value for traders of a commodity that has no intrinsic value," wrote Whateverandeveramen, whose comment was upvoted eight times.

"About as soulless as large parts of the diamond trade," echoed Trewus, while Le canal hertzien labelled it "an architectural disaster".

"A gargantuan catalogue of shapes, materials and not much architecture," wrote Pa Varreon. "[Morphogenesis] should perhaps make a single choice of style while they are skimming through their architectural school books."

Is the world's largest office building a diamond or a dud? Join the discussion ›

"Nothing says New York like glazed black terracotta!"

It may be the summer holidays, but office buildings were on everyone's minds this week, with a black-glazed terracotta-clad building by SOM also leading to debate in the comments section.

Called 28&7, the 12-storey office building in Manhattan's Chelsea neighbourhood was designed by SOM to complement the nearby masonry-clad structures while maintaining a modern look.

Commenters largely thought the building fit the bill.

"That looks cool, elegant, refined [and] respectful of context," wrote Jb. "And it chose not to be a skyscraper."

"The building is really nice, and actually 28th street between 7th and 8th has become itself a bit of an architectural display of facades. Therefore I agree some sobriety was needed to avoid creating a facade collage," agreed Pablo Simg.

Other commenters saw echoes of Herzog & de Meuron's 253 40 Bond residential building in NoHo, although Trewus was "not complaining because all these building facades are what is appropriate for New York, as opposed to the blue-grey glass desert at Hudson Yards."

"Lacks all the rhythmic subtlety that Herzog & de Meuron poured into their 40 Bond, which is probably the gold standard for 'terracotta' facades," argued JZ. "But as a background building (which it's debatable whether corner buildings should be), it's fine."

Franc Lea  joked that the facade is typically NYC, commenting "nothing says New York like glazed black terracotta!"

Does the SOM design work for you? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "AI will never replace a Frank Lloyd Wright or a Mies van der Rohe" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing the first 3D-printed house to be completed at  the "largest-scale development of 3D-printed homes in the world".

Co-designed by Danish architecture studio BIG and American 3D-printing firm ICON, the full-sized model home is one of 100 houses that are currently being constructed by local firm Lennar.

The house, which will serve as a model for prospective buyers, has striated 3D-printed walls constructed through the use of ICON's proprietary material, Lavacrete.

Currently projected to cost between $475,990-$559,990, Dezeen commenters were left wondering whether 3D-printed homes are worth it.

"Why complicate such a relatively minor cost element with such a contrived idea?"

"[I] find the concept of the 3D-printed house very interesting, but for now it has too many limitations," wrote JBH3.

"My assumption is that the designs will get better as the technology gets better," they continued. "If they can get the cost down, I think this would be a technology that could be used for low-income housing. Right now all I see is the dust building up on every line in the wall."

While some commenters questioned BIG's role in the design of the model house – "Why did they need BIG to draw a three-bed floor plan when ICON has a catalogue full of 3D-printed bungalows?" wondered Marius.

Colin MacGillivray was similarly cynical, asking "what percentage of the final cost of a house in Texas do the external walls cost? 10-15 per cent? Why complicate such a relatively minor cost element which is so important to the final appearance with such a contrived idea?"

"Give me a team of carpenters or bricklayers every time over a 3D concrete printer," concluded AlfredHitchcock. "Just because something is possible doesn't make it a good idea."

Is 3D printing the future of construction or an all-out flop? Join the discussion ›

"There are so many ugly buildings on Oxford Street – don't demolish one of the good ones"

Also igniting debate in the comments section this week was the news that British Secretary of State Michael Gove has rejected Marks & Spencer's plans to demolish its Art Deco flagship store on Oxford Street in London.

Some commenters welcomed the decision, while others thought "we could do better".

"This is immensely important news," wrote Chris. "A building that should have never even been considered for wholesale demolition." While Freddie Lewis reasoned "there are so many horrendously ugly buildings on Oxford Street – don't demolish one of the good ones".

Whateverandeveramen took Apsco Radiales to task for his view that the rejection is "one of the better decisions the GB government has made in years", responding "why? Even Historic England doesn't want to list this building. There are so many better examples of this architectural style. We don't need to pickle the whole of the 1920s."

AlfredHitchcock, meanwhile, was caught between a rock and a hard place. "It's an ugly building with very little architectural merit and probably very difficult to adapt for reuse due to its reinforced concrete structure. However, the proposed replacement building would also have had zero architectural merit."

JB took a more blunt view. "The new design sucks, so it's better to keep this one," they said.

Are you in favour of Gove's decision? Join the discussion ›

"Let him pay for it"

News that Saudi Arabia is reportedly looking to raise a loan of 10 billion riyals to develop its controversial Neom region caused a small storm in the comments section this week, with many readers wondering why crown prince Mohammed bin Salman doesn't just foot the bill himself.

"Wait," wrote Milos Mom. "The little prince is worth $18 billion. Let him pay for it.

This sentiment was echoed by Ralph Kent, who called the Saudi government's approach to borrowing and lending a "questionable financial merry-go-round".

"The cost of developing Hudson Yards was around $25 billion," posited Volantt in reference to the 28-acre development in Manhattan. "To develop such a city [as The Line] you need to spend 100 times more at least. It looks more like a gold mine for consultants, rather than a real project."

But Apsco Radiales didn't see much hope for the loan coming through, wondering "what lending institution will give them the money and participate in the biggest folly in hundreds of years".

Do you think the Neom development is a billionaire's folly? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Give me a team of bricklayers over a 3D printer every time" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing Elon Musk's latest venture – an AI startup that the American entrepreneur says will seek "to understand reality".

Announced last week, Musk says his startup, xAI, will take a new approach to making artificial intelligence technology safe.

"I think it is going to be pro-humanity from the standpoint that humanity is just much more interesting than not-humanity," Musk reportedly told a Twitter Spaces event.

xAI is far from Musk's first foray into the AI space: he was a co-founder of OpenAI but has been critical of the firm since leaving in 2018.

Accusing ChatGPT of having a liberal bias, the entrepreneur first announced that he was planning a "maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe" in an interview with Fox News earlier this year.

"If only we didn't have to share 'reality' with Elmo"

Dezeen commenters were quick to question Musk's grasp on "reality".

"Elon needs all the help he can get understanding the universe," wrote Bunkermentality. "On his own, he seems to be a little lost."

"Using the human factor as the way to achieve the goal of a safe AI is the flaw in his reasoning," argued Elizabeth Lui. "An anthropocentric paradigm has given us the tragic world we are now experiencing. We have a species problem underlying man's basic animal instinct to dominate nature in order to survive. We are the problem."

Tim was similarly scathing: "when someone spouts 'maximum truth-seeking AI' while also whining about a liberal bias, that usually only means they want to push their views while just pretending that [they're] truthful."

Referring to the nickname Twitter employees are rumoured to have coined behind Musk's back, Prescott added resignedly "if only we didn't have to share 'reality' with Elmo".

Is it an opportunity for maximum truth or an AI tragedy? Join the discussion ›

"Bombastic"

Also causing a stir in the comments section this week was Corstorphine & Wright's conversion of a world war two bunker into a Dorset holiday home defined by a blast-shaped window.

Some commenters thought the building's blast-shaped window was a little too on the nose.

"I don't think there's anything playful or amusing about bomb blasts," wrote AlfredHitchcock. "Repurposing the shelter as a holiday home is a great idea, but there's no need to pretend it was ever bombed."

"Considering today's headlines, I wouldn't like to constantly be reminded of war and death every time I looked out my only window," agreed Jim Angrabright.

"I'm a big proponent of adaptive reuse and love using concrete, not just for its utilitarian properties but for its aesthetics, but this place is just straight-up depressing," they continued.

Other commenters, though, thought the studio could have pushed the envelope further. "Seems this would be the ultimate in brutalist design," wrote Igor Pismensky. "But to truly be authentic, it should have exploded a bomb or two."

"I can't imagine how the energy feels in this space," concluded Steve Hassler, to which Noel Buller replied "bombastic!"

Would you pay to stay in the converted bunker? Join the discussion ›

"Wonderful proportions and detailing"

Readers were split over a "restrained yet rich" marble side extension to a Victorian terraced house in Hampstead, London, designed by local studio ConForm.

"Feels a bit like a columbarium for anonymous people to me – at least those tend to have some flowers," wrote MrG.

James was on the same page. "It's beautiful, surely. But if serenity is the goal, creating a massive echo chamber seems like a strange choice."

The dwelling's marble kitchen also caused a bit of a stir, with Milton Welch calling it "a glaring, boring white".

"The marble kitchen looks like it would have been ludicrously expensive," added AlfredHitchcock. "It will probably never be used because as soon as it gets stained with curry, tomato or red wine it will be ruined forever."

Other commenters thought the addition was a clear success.

"I always enjoy seeing projects by this studio – such brave, finely detailed designs," said Gary Tynan, while HP2 praised its "wonderful proportions and detailing".

Do you think an all-marble extension is a hard sell? Join the discussion ›

"How could you concentrate with such beautiful things outside your window?"

Commenters were full of praise this week for an off-grid research station in Kansas, designed by local studio Hutton to integrate with the natural topography of its setting.

Sitting within an active cattle ranch and research site for Wichita State University, Youngmeyer Field Station holds a laboratory, meeting space and a garage, along with living quarters to accommodate up to six researchers.

Tom Roberts praised the research station's "unassuming directness", while CharlieBing called it an "exquisite building".

"Love the building form, and the combination of natural and cut stone courses is a great choice," wrote Z-dog. "Looking forward to seeing some photos in five years when the landscaping has crept back to the building edge."

"I absolutely love the Flint Hills," said Troops79. "I really appreciate the way this building was designed to fit seamlessly into that environment."

"Look at that sky and the prairie!" exclaimed Apsco Radiales. "How could you ever concentrate on your research with such beautiful things just outside your window?"

Are you similarly sold on the off-grid research station? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Elon needs all the help he can get understanding the universe" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing an interview with 2023 AIA Gold Medal winner Carol Ross Barney, who argues skyscrapers are "just not that valuable".

Barney, who runs Chicago studio Ross Barney Architects, said that investing in undervalued infrastructure, rethinking density and continuing to open up the architecture field to women and minorities are essential for rethinking cities for the 21st century.

Dezeen commenters were quick to debate urban planning and the built environment.

"Skyscrapers are just architectural grandstanding"

Jb concurred with Ross Barney's assessment. "Well said. Say it again. Keep saying it," they commented.

But Not my Nimby disagreed, saying: "High density is more sustainable and more economical, and that is truly more equitable."

"Skyscrapers are just architectural grandstanding and don't serve those who must live and work in and around them well," contested George Panagos.

Prado Sellinder thinks that "mixed use, low to mid-rise but still high density urbanism is so much more interesting as part of the urban fabric".

"Suburban sprawl is a much worse problem than skyscrapers," they added.

Whateverandeveramen thinks that "carefully choreographed densification of the suburb is essential for the success and vitality of cities in the next fifty years".

High-rise or urban sprawl? Join the discussion ›

"High-tech nonsense"

Commenters were cynical about the unveiling of the MSG Sphere in Las Vegas.

The bulbous 54,000-square-metre LED screen designed by architecture studio Populous, which is the largest of its kind, was emblazoned with different animations as part of a special show before its official opening in September.

"What a dystopian monstrosity," commented ZEN02.

HintofBrain was equally damning: "High-tech nonsense to tickle the average consumer's indifference to anything resembling culture," they said.

Deep State thinks the MSG Sphere is "a clear sign of a culture in decline."

It was unclear whether or not Kem Roolhaas was joking when they commented "Honestly, this is the best architecture I've seen in years".

Monster or marvel? Join the discussion ›

In another story this week that explores technological innovation, the US Federal Aviation Administration has awarded a special airworthiness certificate to a prototype electric car that can go from driving to flying by launching straight up into the air like a drone.

Dezeen readers had lots of questions. Firstly, what makes it a car when "when it can fly anywhere?" queried Colin MacGillivray.

Steve Hassler wanted to know "What license is required to operate this vehicle? Can you only fly it on your personal property? Do air regulations exist to make this safe?"

"Who gives them air right over someone's home?" asked Milton Welch. "With cars, what happens on the road stays on the road," they added.

"In many places, there is a dire need for public transit expansion, yet we're focused on this?" asked aGhostDream. "I'm sorry but we have to start asking ourselves what our priorities are."

Muckers270 captured a lot of the confusion when they declared "there are too many questions that arise out of this".

No-brainer or total headache? Join the discussion ›

"Nice exterior. Antiseptic interior"

Glossy white-concrete winged panels clad this Italian holiday home by Milan studio JM Architecture, which has with a pentagonal plan. Commenters weren't entirely convinced.

"Nice exterior. Antiseptic interior," remarked Trewus. "It's a single idea well executed, and very dull as a result," chimed in Jb.

Hello Peril thinks that "those wings are entirely pointless."

"The projecting fins do nothing for glare – they're just a contrivance like the plan itself," agreed Colin MacGillivray. "There's only one Pentagon that works and that's in Washington DC."

But JZ liked the project: "love the scale and compactness. There's a bit of a sci-fi quality with the interior".

However, Apsco Radiales saw more retro design influences. "Very bold architecture – sort of reminds me of the classic old Italian sport cars when they looked the best. A brilliant piece of work," they commented.

Sci-fi or sports car? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Suburban sprawl is a much worse problem than skyscrapers" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a Christ & Gantenbein-designed concrete bridge in Aarau, Switzerland, which features five arches of varying widths.

The 119-metre-long New Aare Bridge, which connects Aarau city centre to a forested area on the other side of the Aare River, incorporates lanes for cars, pedestrians and cyclists.

The sculptural bridge replaces an ageing concrete crossing built in 1949 and was designed by Basel-based Christ & Gantenbein in collaboration with local engineering studios WMM Ingenieure and Henauer Gugler to reference its historic surroundings.

"Begs for pedestrians to run their fingers along those delicious edges"

Commenters were bowled over.

"Elegant, solid, timeless, no showboating," wrote Marius, while Chris Brueckner branded it "quite elegant".

"Fantastic," declared Betty Rubble. "[It] begs for pedestrians to run their fingers along those delicious, crisp edges."

Chuck Anziulewicz caused a small storm in the comments section with the question: "Why can't we have nice things like this in the United States?"

Apsco radiales blamed the "pesky Brits" while Danny De Jayeff had a more simple explanation: "Because we're Americans".

But some commenters weren't quite so besotted.

Walter Astor accused the structure of being "entirely devoid of the design development that makes real architecture".

Whateverandeveramen, meanwhile, thought it was quintessentially Swiss – if a little retro: "Typically Swiss. A brand new bridge that everyone will think was built in the 70s."

What do you think of New Aare Bridge? Join the discussion ›

"One of the best uses of 3D printing in architecture I've seen"

The New Aare Bridge wasn't the only project that elicited a tactile response from commenters this week. A pair of 3D-printed archways designed by Studio RAP left one commenter wondering "don't you just want to run your hands over those beautiful, smooth shapes?"

Studio RAP combined algorithmic design with 3D printing to create the New Delft Blue archways, which frame entrances to a courtyard garden at the centre of the VY Architects-designed PoortMeesters housing development in Delft.

Jeroen van Lith called the project "one of the best uses of 3D printing in architecture I've seen to date".

"Love it. Beautiful. Not an easy feat," agreed Kem Roolhaas.

AlfredHitchcock thought the project harkened back to a better time: "The archway lining is reminiscent of the quality of many European public and apartment buildings made 100 to 150 years ago. It's a shame we don't often see that level of quality, colour, art and attention to detail in most modern buildings."

Blue Wren was more hopeful: "Perhaps this will give architects permission to build beautiful things again."

Are you besotted by New Delft Blue? Join the discussion ›

"Brick is such a great solution when it's done right"

British practice Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios has collaborated with local studio Shatotto Architecture for Green Living to create an "outstanding" boarding school in Bangladesh, where decorative brick-clad buildings fold around outdoor learning areas.

Located in the Bangladeshi capital, Aga Khan Academy Dhaka comprises a series of four-storey volumes that are clad in brick and nestled within a highly-developed urban site bordered by a large motorway.

Commenters thought all projects could learn a thing or two from the "gorgeous" boarding school.

"Outstanding project," wrote Dixie Normous. "The variety of depth on that buttress facade? Fantastic."

CharlieBing agreed, commenting: "So much to like and enjoy. Brick is such a great solution when it's done right. Very special."

"Gorgeous. The monumental brick screenwork in particular," said JZ, while Tony365 admired the "really lovely expression of brickwork".

Are you on the same page? Join the discussion ›

"Essentially just a very expensive lobby"

Readers weren't fully on board with HOK and Practice for Architecture and Urbanism's plans for the renovation of Manhattan's historic Penn Station.

Revealed last week after years of delays, the revitalisation of the transit hub will include a new entrance on Eighth Avenue and a renovation of existing structures.

Mark Weisgerber thought "NYC could do better" than the revamped station's "brutal and simplistic exterior".

Kem Roolhaas took a more resigned view. "Since anything is better than the current design, this automatically qualifies as a good design," they commented.

"Nice facelift," conceded Troels Steenholdt Heiredal, "but [it's] essentially just a very expensive lobby."

But not all commenters were so quick to write off the plans.

"The outside looks like a very nice, contemporary version of the Moynihan Station," wrote Flooo. "The main hall also looks grand (given its circumstances with MSG on top), clear and welcoming. A very nice combination of materials and colours."

Do you think the renovation's going in the right direction? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Why can't we have nice things like this in the US?" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a colourful secondary school in China, which Trace Architecture Office has designed as a "celebration of creativity".

Defined by its brightly coloured volumes and sweeping curves, the Haikou Jiangdong Huandao Experimental School was created as a retreat from traditional forms of education.

"The spaces created stimulate imagination and surprise, instead of simply following the rules and regulations," Beijing-based Trace Architecture Office told Dezeen.

"Le Corbusier is alive and well"

Commenters were captivated by the school, with Archill hailing it as "an education in gorgeous design".

"Love, love, love everything about this!" agreed Louise Smith, while Thithyphuth was reminded of great projects past, commenting "Le Corbusier is alive and well in China".

Ken Robertson received the most upvotes for his comment, which branded the school "so confident, so fluid, so good".

But not all readers were quite so smitten. Jb thought the building looked a little old-fashioned, calling it "a celebration of creativity circa 1980".

Idracula, meanwhile, thought the design looked a little too much like the kids were left in charge. "Designed by the pupils or the architects?" they wondered.

Do you think the project passes the test? Join the discussion ›

"I doubt Ferruccio Lamborghini would approve"

Also stoking plenty of debate in the comments section this week was Lamborghini's first residential project in Europe. Named Tierra Viva, Lamborghini said that the development's design "is directly inspired" by its supercars.

But commenters weren't racing to sing its praises.

Zee called the villas "soulless and bleak", while Pa Varreon branded them "ridiculous and vain".

"Would be way cooler if all the doors open the Lamborghini way," posited Claus, while Albia400 quipped "would be great if these never got built".

"As with Bugatti, Lamborghini should stick to what they know," argued Alfred Hitchcock. "They make beautiful cars. Looking at this project, they don't make beautiful architecture. I doubt Ferruccio Lamborghini would approve."

Other commenters weren't convinced the villas were very in keeping with Lamborghini's aesthetic. "Looks rather Audi to me," joked Shepherd, while Seb thought the project was more akin to "the Toyota Corolla of villa design".

What are your thoughts on Tierra Viva? Join the discussion ›

"Has the whiff of hubris about it"

Scandinavian studios Henning Larsen and White Arkitekter are designing Stockholm Wood City, a mass-timber development in the Swedish capital that's set to become the "world's largest wooden city".

According to its developer Atrium Ljungberg, the city will use more timber than any other project in development and is designed to have the "serenity of a forest".

Commenters criticised the development for failing to see the wood for the trees.

"Serenity of a forest?" disputed AJ. "That can be achieved by planting trees in the same space [rather than] building this folly to serve the egos of the self-righteous and vapid architects and developers."

Nick De St Croix was on the same page, asking "can this possibly be sustainable? Maybe when judged in isolation but aggregated together with all other wood projects across the planet? I doubt it. This has the whiff of hubris about it."

Other commenters questioned its practicality. "This better be coming with the world's biggest fire station," said Stefanos S, while A Haig offered a more light-hearted concern and wanted to know "will there be bears?"

Have commenters been too quick to dismiss Stockholm Wood City? Join the discussion ›

"How and why is this special?"

Readers were also left unimpressed this week by a 24-storey mixed-use building that US studio Hickok Cole designed using ChatGPT.

The building, which features a green roof and a swimming pool, was designed for an unspecified urban site and contains retail, office, residential, hotel and library space.

Responding to project architect Jack Lynch's prediction that specialised AI chatbots will start to be integrated into software commonly used by architects, Tim commented "great, because if Revit wasn't already annoying to use as is, now it's going to be suggesting the way the design should be done".

Salamoon was similarly unmoved. "How and why is this special?" they wrote. "Looks kinda ordinary."

"Hard to argue that it is not a result of the Shake 'n Bake AI design process," agreed Marius.

Don Bronkema, though, was less cynical about the development, calling it "pleasingly verdant".

Are AI chatbots the future of architectural software? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "So confident, so fluid, so good" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a pair of Maseratis designed by David Beckham, which were exclusively revealed on Dezeen.

Informed by his "passion for classic cars" and tailoring, former footballer Beckham customised the vehicles as the first edition in Maserati's Fuoriserie Essentials collection.

According to the brand, each of the cars was informed by a historic Maserati and designed as an extension to Beckham's "Savile Row sartorial wardrobe".

"Bless his cotton socks"

Beckham's billing as designer of the cars raised a few eyebrows among commenters.

"Pretty loose interpretation of 'designed'," wrote Tim, in a comment that was upvoted 10 times.

"How does Beckham design a car?" quipped Igor Pismensky. "He tells the designer or engineer 'I like green and not pink. I like fast over slow. I like vegan leather over vinyl.' Done!"

BT76 offered a similar critique: "Picking colours to paint existing cars is apparently now the same as designing cars. By this standard, every homeowner painting their bathroom is an architect."

Other commenters couldn't pass up the opportunity for irony. As to the question of whether Beckham designed the cars himself, Whateverandeveramen wrote, "Of course he did. Bless his cotton socks."

While Orlandoa1 drolly wondered, "is there no end to David Beckham's talents?"

Do you think it's a car crash collaboration? Join the discussion ›

"Perfect for holding my microscopic wallet"

Also providing plenty of fodder for commenters this week was a microscopic Louis Vuitton handbag designed by art collective MSCHF as a comment on the luxury fashion industry and the functionality of small bags.

Made from neon-green photopolymer resin, the microscopic handbag was 3D printed using technology normally used for making biotech structures.

George Panagos called it a "perfect expression of the usefulness of overpriced luxury items", before adding: "I've always enjoyed MSCHF's ironic social commentary."

"Perfect for holding my microscopic wallet," joked Kem Roolhaas, while SalamOOn thought it was cheap at the price: "only for $2,740!"

Other commenters weren't so keen. "Why? How is this of any value to our culture? Is it even worth publication?" asked Philly Citizen.

Marius, meanwhile, wondered whether the bag was more of a commentary on getting older than luxury fashion.

"At the threshold of middle age, we notice the evident conspiracy of all printing businesses and eyewear manufacturers," they wrote. "Fonts get smaller and we have to get reading glasses. Now Louis Vuitton joins the racket."

What are your thoughts on the microscopic handbag? Join the discussion ›

"What's not to like?"

A "very well done" courtyard home near Chennai, India, caught readers' attention this week.

Designed by local practice Rain Studio and defined by raw, tactile materials including clay tiles and compressed earth bricks, the house was created as a weekend retreat for its clients on a coastal site surrounded by fields that lead directly onto a nearby beach.

"[The] deep red brick and [the] Mangalore tiles are my favourite in this house," wrote Ryan, while Rob Brearley admired the "nice use of material".

George Panagos agreed, admiring the "warm and inviting use of reclaimed materials, unfettered by pretentious fuss. A courtyard surrounded by a peaceful veranda. What's not to like? Great project."

"Very well done," added Frankie. "Reminds me of David Hertz's own house in Venice Beach."

Are you equally charmed by the courtyard house in Chennai? Join the discussion ›

"I would hope that this discussion takes into account 80 years of research and development"

Readers also reacted to the launch of our AItopia editorial series, which will explore AI's impact on design, architecture and humanity.

"AI is one of the foremost threats facing our jobs as architects," wrote Archill. "But then, it also serves its purpose (look at what Schumacher said ZHA is doing). Hoping Dezeen will cover all sides of this debate!"

Henri Achten has similar hopes for the series: "I would hope that this discussion takes into account 80 years of research and development done by thousands of people and not just a few alarmist end-users that discovered ChatGPT and Midjourney a few weeks ago."

For Franc Lea, AItopia prompted a philosophical question: "If not all utopias end in dystopia and not all dystopias are failed utopias, what judgment call are we making on the AItopia?"

What's your judgement call? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Is there no end to David Beckham's talents?" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing Heatherwick Studio's "weird and wonderful" design for the West Bund Orbit exhibition centre in Shanghai, China.

The Heatherwick Studio-designed West Bund Orbit exhibition centre is currently under construction on the West Bund waterfront in Xuhui District and will feature a series of interwoven "ribbons" that wrap around the main exhibition space.

Informed by the shape of traditional Chinese moon bridges, these undulating ribbons will be used as staircases, bridges and terraces for the public.

"Cartoonitecture"

In typical Heatherwick style, the exhibition hall quickly divided opinions in the comments section.

Trewus called the project "gimmicky", while AlfredHitchcock branded it "cartoonitecture".

"Heatherwick is so far ahead of the curve, he's behind," wrote JZ, who wasn't bowled over by the building's "100-plus-year-old construction methods" either.

Other commenters took a lighter view. "If a client is looking for a weird and wonderful building, I think Thomas Heatherwick is really their starchitecture port of call," wrote Z-dog. "Who else would they call?

"The construction belies the form, but this is a necessity to reach some sort of sustainability targets," they continued.

"Heatherwick [is] showing architects how it's done," agreed Pabst Blue Ribbons.

Gimmick or great success? Join the discussion ›

"Parisians seem to forget that the Eiffel Tower had the same backlash"

Also sparking debate in the comments section this week was the news that Paris has reimposed a 37-metre height limit for new buildings in the city.

The height limit, which was previously in place from 1977 to 2010, was reinstated following the controversial construction of Herzog & de Meuron's Tour Triangle tower, which will be the city's third tallest building when finished.

Some commenters welcomed the ban, with Miguel Angel Sucre calling it "the best news in architecture I have read in a long time".

"Paris' seven-storey plateau must be preserved," agreed Kakaaaaaah. "It is the sweet spot for density conducive to vibrant urbanism."

Other commenters came to the defense of Herzog & de Meuron's pyramid-shaped tower, which is due to complete in 2026.

"Parisians seem to forget that the Eiffel Tower had the same backlash back in the 1800s and now it's being used in every single piece of French media ever produced," wrote Kieran.

"I think it is iconic," added Johannes. "It looks like a slice of Camembert smashed upright into the city – could be the headquarters of the French cheese industry."

Are you in favour of Paris' skyscraper ban? Join the discussion ›

"If only we each had our own island... how am I ever going to be sustainable without one?"

Danish architect Bjarke Ingels has collaborated with clothing brand Vollebak to design an entirely self-sufficient, off-grid island home in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Designed for Leader Island, which has been rebranded Vollebak Island, the house was created to exemplify Ingels' studio BIG's "philosophy of hedonistic sustainability".

Commenters couldn't help but see the irony.

"I'm not sure how this represents any kind of a 'sustainable' strategy in a macro picture," commented Gregory Walker. "It's perfectly fine in terms of ambition but a nearly 6,000 square foot house, taking up the whole of a small island, is not a replicable solution for either housing in remote areas or any remotely suburban site."

"If only we each had our own island... how am I ever going to be sustainable without one?" quipped Eat Lemons.

"Is this how he sleeps at night, while still participating in Neom?" wondered mkgr4.

Are you buying Ingels' "philosophy of hedonistic sustainability"? Join the discussion ›

"An elegant example of how accessibility can be brought to the great outdoors"

Architecture studio EFFEKT has completed Norway's first treetop walkway, which has been designed with a gentle incline accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities, as well as cyclists, pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Readers were full of praise for the project, which winds its way through Hamaren Activity Park in Fyresdal and ends at a circular viewpoint.

"The fact that the pillars are comparable in size and shape to tree trunks must make the view extraordinarily peaceful. This is really well-thought-out landscape design. Simple and effective," wrote LutherBlissett.

Gytis Bickus agreed: "Wonderful. Nature is rarely accessible for the mobility disadvantaged. This is an elegant example of how accessibility can be brought to the great outdoors!"

"That is just awesome. If I was there, I'd be doing a walk or two every day," added Apsco radiales.

What are your thoughts on the treetop walkway? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Heatherwick is showing architects how it's done" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update readers discussed a monolithic home in Mexico created as a haven for the residents and other top architecture and design stories.

Occupying a corner plot, the house appears as a solid block with only a recessed doorway and garage breaking the solid white walls.

"Pretty intense spaces"

Readers were unsure about the house, especially due to its few windows. "This is how I imagine solitary confinement or house arrest," commented The Resistance, who found the idea of living there rather "mind numbing".

Colin MacGillivray wasn't impressed with the location of the door and believed it "should be roughly in the centre of the long wall with a decent reception space avoiding the awkward long corridor for visitors."

JZ found the spaces "pretty intense" and "monkish" and wondered whether the clients would be able to "maintain the purity of the interior as they break it in".

Alfred Hitchcock believed that "the interior cell walls just need some padding" and that "the exterior walls make an excellent canvas for Banksy et al".

What do you think about this house? Join the discussion ›

"The lemon squeezer and some other stuff was cool"

Readers debated the residential YOO GYE skyscraper in Guayaquil, Ecuador, which will be designed by YOO Inspired by Philippe Starck.

In Alfred Hitchcock's opinion "this project represents everything that's wrong with the world" to which Mark Favermann agreed, stating that "Philippe Starck, who I admire, should just keep his day job".

Romeo Reyes, on the other hand, was impressed: "This brilliant display of Monsieur Starck's design bravado brazenly shows he still has the mojo," they said. "Bravo!".

"The lemon squeezer and some other stuff was cool," commented a disappointed Kevin McGrath, who found the proposal "dreadful".

Do you love it or hate it? Join the discussion ›

"And not an oculus in sight"

Readers discussed a home in Tokyo that was designed for a client with a love of walnut wood and contemporary Italian furniture.

Leo was not a fan of the limited windows and the fact that there is only "one view to the outside". "The need for security sounds less plausible in Tokyo," they continued, comparing the house to the all-white stucco home in Mexico mentioned above.

Higgs Merino commented that there was "not an oculus in sight". A "missed opportunity" in their opinion "but not necessarily permanently," they continued.

What are your thoughts on this Tokyo home? Join the discussion ›

"Rock on, red"

Our latest lookbook, which highlighted eight interiors that are blanketed in shades of red, was also commented on. Projects in this lookbook included an office in Belgium, a bar toilet in London and a mansion in Mexico, which some readers were impressed by and others not so much.

Betty Rubble, for one, felt quite positively about it all: "I dig these, and adore red," they said. "Everyone should do one room all red, have a blast, and get it out of your system,"they continued. "Revel in it, with the full awareness that the day is coming when you go to the hardware store to pick up a gallon of Bin primer."

"Everyone would prefer these reds in grey," disagreed Jb. "Yawn," they continued. "Rock on, Red!"

Apsco Radiales and Don Bronkema, however, would clearly not opt for red, commenting "hellish" and "nightmarish".

Do you like red for interiors? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "The exterior walls will make an excellent canvas for Banksy" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed luxury car manufacturer Bugatti's first foray into residential architecture.

Car brand Bugatti last week unveiled the design of a 42-storey skyscraper in Dubai that will have two garage-to-penthouse car lifts.

Developed in partnership with local developer Binghatti, the Bugatti Residences will be the first residential building branded with the Bugatti name. Dezeen readers were sceptical.

"Looks like something you chanced upon in Patrik Schumacher's recycling bin"

Commenter AlfredHitchcock thought "Bugatti should stick to what they know and make beautiful cars", while Nah lamented the absence of the "finesse and sophistication [that] they use in their car design".

"Making an amorphous random blob is, especially in architecture, the laziest way to design," wrote Javier Conejo. "It doesn't require any knowledge or sophistication – particularly in this case where even the scaling finesse of a Zaha Hadid is absent."

Conejo wasn't the only commenter to have had a sense of déjà vu. "Zaha Hadid guys freelancing?" wondered Apsco Radiales.

Kumar Arvind offered a less flattering assessment: "Looks like something you chanced upon in Patrik Schumacher's recycling bin."

What are your thoughts on the Bugatti skyscraper? Join the discussion ›

"What are architects doing in that Line mess?"

Also igniting debate in the comments section this week was reports of a discussion with British architect Peter Cook, who is working on The Line mega city in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking at an event to mark the opening of an exhibition dedicated to the wider Neom project in Venice, Cook called the height of the 500-metre-tall project "a bit stupid and unreasonable", according to a report in the Architects' Journal.

Commenters weren't long pointing out other aspects of the project that they find unreasonable.

"So Cook wasn't phased by the planned 100-plus mile-long buildings and the impact that they have on the area and its people, but was questioning the height of 120 stories?" commented Tim. "As with everything about this project, the big picture was missed and a detail was discussed."

"What are architects doing in that Line mess, except probably making loads of lolly?" wrote Pa Varreon. "Interestingly Peter Cook seems to be, like Fuksas, moving far away from his 70s visionary projects. What a sad evolution."

"It's architects who are a bit stupid," added Jb. "The Line is an abomination."

Do Cook's comments stand up? Join the discussion ›

"Non-architects are producing the most interesting architecture these days"

The residential YOO GYE skyscraper in Guayaquil, Ecuador, which developer Uribe Schwarzkopf is designing in collaboration with French designer Philippe Starck, has split commenter opinion.

Described by Starck as a "paradise", the 176-metre-high skyscraper will be located alongside the Rio Guayas river, which runs through Ecuador's largest city.

Romeo Reyes called the project a "brilliant display of Monsieur Starck's design bravado", while Kevin McGrath declared it "dreadful".

"Very unusual," commented Colin_MacGillivray. "Is this the first time a 46-storey tower has looked like it's a seven-storey building perched on an eight-storey one?"

Jb was all for it. "Non-architects are producing the most interesting architecture these days, unhampered by dogma," they commented.

Bravado or bust? Join the discussion ›

"Someone send this to Wes Anderson's location scout"

Commenters were "charmed" by EBBA Architects' transformation of a former jellied-eel restaurant on London's Broadway Market into a shop for eyewear brand Cubitts.

Idracula called it "lovely", while Jennifer Kay simply wrote: "Yum yum yum!"

"You can't help but enjoy the warmth of the interior that is reflected in the rays in the stained glass window," wrote Pickled.

"Someone send this to Wes Anderson's location scout," added Tom.

Are you a fan of the transformation? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Looks like something from Patrik Schumacher's recycling bin" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed a block-long timber truss bridge that connects Manhattan's High Line to the renovated Penn Station and other top architecture and design stories.

The 300-foot (92-metre) long bridge is part of the Moynihan Connector, which connects Manhattan's elevated High Line walkway to the Moynihan Train Hall transit hub.

"A great-looking addition to the city"

In Marius's opinion, the "elegant highline that carried trains did not need this" adding the footbridge is "fat and ungraceful."

The commenter's views were shared by Ekin Sahin, who argued that the structure is "not architecturally pleasing, not an engineering marvel or not contemporary design in any way." They continued by claiming that "it's not sustainable" just because timber was used.

With a more positive outlook, Ken Steffes found the bridge a "great-looking addition to the city" but wondered whether it "should be covered in a city with winter weather like New York."

"Finally some warm colours in this neoliberal dystopia," agreed Trewus with a hint of sarcasm.

Do you like the bridge? Join the discussion ›

"Zero morality urbanism"

Readers debated the fact that Danish studio BIG has been named the masterplanner of the floating port city of Oxagon, which is part of the Neom development in Saudi Arabia.

"They should feel utterly ashamed of themselves," said Jell. "For participating in this awful, inhumane endeavour and, frankly, for producing such rubbish and gimmicky design."

"Food for the critics, but the city moves on despite those naysayers," argued Mr J. They wondered whether it "will end up better than the housing plague currently enveloping our shire counties", adding that "only the future will reveal that."

Prole made it short but clear: "Zero morality urbanism."

What are your thoughts? Join the discussion ›

"That would have been fun to design"

Readers were generally impressed by the Parconido Bakery Cafe in South Korea, which is made from red bricks and features playful curved shapes and rounded walls designed to create an illusion-like effect.

Z-dog noted that the project "seems upside down" and that the "brick arches inverted to their natural position could have created a wonderful division of the spaces." They continued by praising the project and said that it "has been executed beautifully."

Idractula, on the other hand, found the project "too fussy" and was of the opinion that the "curves at foot level present a hazard."

"That would have been fun to design," commented Jb.

Would you visit this cafe? Join the discussion ›

"Architecture without modernist architects is certainly desirable"

Readers reacted to an exclusive interview with Normal Foster at the Venice Architecture Biennale during which he said that the simplest structures, such as tents and huts, can teach architects lessons.

"I know many houses in Europe, and North America that have never seen an architect, yet they are gems in terms of style, materials, and planning," agreed Apsco Radiales.

"Architecture without modernist architects is certainly desirable," commented Jb.

"Interesting and unfortunately indispensable in the 'damaged' or war-torn parts of the world," added Pa Varreon.

Did you read the interview? Join the discussion ›

Comments update
Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Finally some warm colours in this neoliberal dystopia" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed Tilly Talbot, a designer powered by artificial intelligence, as well as other top architecture and design stories.

The digital figure appeared in a video format at Milan design week reciting an introduction with an "AI" watermark next to her face, which the studio said was important to clarify that "Tilly is not human but is artificial intelligence (AI) and part of our community".

"Lots of us use AI to assist with design"

Heywood Floyd was not impressed by the fact that "the interface is always a wispy model dream girl." He also asked when we'd "see an overweight elderly AI," to which Lily profusely agreed.

Scott Holland didn't seem too phased by the looks of Tilly but wondered what "what happened to the concept of human beings collaborating on a design instead of with a computer." He found the concept "very interesting" on the one hand but "on the other, very sad."

"Lots of us use AI to assist with design," said Kelly. "We just haven't given it a name and we aren't pretending it's a person."

Marcus Harvey, however, was not convinced at all: "What a load of tosh."

What do you think about Tilly Talbot? Join the discussion ›

B+H Architects creates archival facility with double-concrete skin in Quebec

"This is the modernist architect's wet dream"

Toronto-based studio B+H Architects has created an archival storage facility in Gatineau, Quebec, with a massive double-layer concrete envelope and automated retrieval systems.

"Very imposing, scary, intriguing, but strangely beautiful," commented Frank Beukenkamp. "Art and documents will survive a nuclear strike."

Puzello agreed: "As ubiquitous as the cube shape is, I find these images quite beautiful, floating on the horizon line."

"This is the modernist architect's wet dream; pure form and no sign of humanity," argued Jb.

Jacob Volanski put it simply: "Love a good cube."

What are your thoughts on the storage facility? Join the discussion ›

(W)rapper Tower in Los Angeles has "eternal" lifecycle says Eric Owen Moss

"The mummy (of deconstructivism) returns"

American architect Eric Owen Moss has completed the (W)rapper office tower in Los Angeles, which was named for the structural support system that covers the facade.

The tower was clearly not Marc Sicard's taste: "Lots of ugly buildings around, but this one looks like it's somehow actively ugly," they said. "Like it tries really hard to be the ugliest possible."

"This is a masterwork of design and will stand the test of time," disagreed William Worthington. Pwnado Season was on the same page and found the building "absolutely brilliant".

According to Jz, the "mummy (of deconstructivism) returns!"

Do you love it or hate it? Join the discussion ›

Ao-ft inserts mass-timber home into London terrace

"It is getting crowded on the CLT bandwagon"

Timber battens and mullions cover the facade of the cross-laminated-timber Spruce House in Walthamstow, London, which readers are debating.

K Pedersen Aia was impressed by the "contextual response" and by the "use of wood to establish rhythm in the facade." The reader wasn't too sure about the stairs, claiming that they'll be "loud and dusty".

In Groosdad's opinion, "the chilly interior needs a big colourful painting by Walthamstow artist Doug Kemp." "It needs "proof of life," they continued.

"It is getting crowded on the CLT bandwagon," argued Marius, who wondered "how the "light coloured wood will look in London after 10 years."

Jb wasn't sold: "That streetscape response is top shock, but the rest is Ikea flatpack."

Do you like the house? What are your thoughts on the storage facility? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "What happened to the concept of human beings collaborating on a design" asks commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed news that ZHA is developing "most" projects using AI-generated images, according to Patrik Schumacher.

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) is using AI text-to-image generators like DALL-E 2 and Midjourney to come up with design ideas for projects, studio principal Patrik Schumacher has revealed. Dezeen readers reacted in the comments section.

"Does it say more about the AI or the designers?"

Ash Lane thought it "makes sense, when I put words into AI visual generators I also get Zahaesque buildings".

"I do think this works better for a firm with such a defined aesthetic like ZHA, so that the AI has enough reference projects to build cohesive new designs off," commented Prado Sellinder.

However, Rodrigo Galván-Duque questioned "do they really need AI to come up with 'Zaha' designs? Didn't seem to be a problem in the past".

Others were more critical, with Gilbert Brown finding it "interesting when your design style is so predictable, that a soulless, non-rational, unconscious AI algorithm can generate new and better designs than you. Does it say more about the AI or the designers?"

What do you think of ZHA using AI? Join the discussion ›

"A new organic architecture"

Chicago-based architecture firm Studio Gang has completed the long-awaited Gilder Center in Manhattan, featuring a shotcrete cavernous atrium. Readers critically appraised the project.

Dr Bird exclaimed "Zaha Hadid imitation?!"

Puzzello found the spaces "pretty extraordinary with a bit of MADness. A beautifully crafted building" and pa varreon agreed: "interesting sort of a new organic architecture. A digestive one, good appetite."

"Undignified and awful. Context be damned," commented Trewus from the other side of the debate.

Do you like the latest project from Studio Gang? Join the discussion ›

"There's not much architects can do"

Commenters reacted to the idea that architects must stop waiting for commissions from wealthy clients and prioritise designing for the planet, as 2023 RIBA Royal Gold Medal winner Yasmeen Lari told Dezeen in this exclusive interview.

Jacopo was "not sure why architects feel the need to preach to other architects – I don't appreciate being grouped and generalized as 'lazy'."

But Kasimir thinks "Lari is spot on with every word she says here, but it's easier to find a thousand excuses than taking even just one step into the right direction."

"There's not much architects can do, unless they themselves fund the projects," commented a less than optimistic Kem Roolhaas.

However, Franc Lea was less despondent, saying that Lari is "clearly thinking deeply about the profession and how best to serve it and hope to steer it."

"How do we improve things without discussing what needs to be better?" they asked.

How do you feel about Lari's comments? Join the discussion ›

"Avoids the usual cliches that go with modernist seaside design"

Readers were enamoured with London practice Of Architecture's use of fuss-free colour and material palette to create an understated home in Newquay, Cornwall.

"This is a splendid building in a spectacular location. The plan works well and the architects have avoided the usual cliches that seem to go with modernist seaside design," said Guy Hains.

JZ also celebrated the project, commenting that "the non-preciousness of it all is the most appealing quality. Very easy to let your hair down here."

"Great seaside studio home for artists. It looks like good value for money too," chipped in Alfred Hitchcock.

Surf's up or total blowout? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Do they really need AI to come up with 'Zaha' designs?" asks commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed Asif Khan and Theaster Gates' Liverpool Docks transformation plans.

A pyramidal pavilion for contemplation is set to be introduced to the Liverpool waterfront as part of a transformation project led by architect Khan and artist Gates.

Dezeen commenters debated the artistic goals and functionality or "usefulness" of art projects like this.

"Too cryptic to mean anything"

Don Bronkema called it "bizarrely uncanonical" and Gavin Smitsdorp echoed them when they commented "great visual aspect, but too cryptic to mean anything!"

"How important or useful is that to the community?" asked Marks Sundays. "Why not propose a floating public pool? I'm sure public money would be better spent," they added.

Jim Angrabright responded "so now art has to be 'useful'? Sounds like end-stage capitalism."

Clichy continued the debate by replying "art does not have to be 'useful' but it should carry some meaning, however tangential. A truncated, perforated pyramid for 'contemplation' strikes one as meaningless within the context."

What's it to you? Join the discussion ›

"What is it about US government contracts that often bring out the worst in firms?"

BIG, Gehry Partners and Perkins&Will are among the five studios that have been selected as finalists in a contest to design the future National Museum of the US Navy. Dezeen readers reacted to the announced finalists and it was Gehry's design that was most discussed in the comments section.

"Gehry Partners proposal is surely the most economical, which is something you don't always get to say about Gehry designs," observed Frank.

Danlazop joked "it's a weird world when Gehry is the conservative entry".

Wil Worthington liked the proposal, exclaiming "Bravo, Frank Gehry!" but JZ thought "the Gehry solution is quite curious".

However other commenters weren't enamoured with any of the designs. Hbnj asked "what is it about US government contracts that often bring out the worst in firms? These renderings and designs already look 20 years old".

Tom Roberts agreed saying "it takes a great deal of effort and insight to create great spaces. None of these qualify."

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"If the idea was to have it look like a shed, mission accomplished"

Commenters debated Canadian practice StudioAC's corrugated metal barn-like home, disguised as an agricultural building on the Bruce Peninsula near Toronto.

Kemarino wasn't convinced, saying "I don't think it's a very successful disguise".

"If the idea was to have it look like a shed, mission almost accomplished," commented Marius.

Apsco Radiales contributed that the "corrugated metal siding is not a bad choice, however, there is a bit too much of it and tends to remind me of metal storage sheds found in almost every Canadian backyard," to which Lewis Dostine responded "I think the goal of looking like a storage shed was apart of the gesture."

Sasz thought it was an "interesting project".

Shed or home? Join the discussion ›

"Foster + Partners have mastered this concept"

UK studio Foster + Partners has unveiled the first flagship Apple Store in India, which has a ceiling made from 450,000 pieces of oak. Commenters had a split reaction.

"I honestly thought these were renderings," said Rd. "F+P are so good at these details, it's just perfection. Very nice store and atmosphere again, and it sits nicely in the larger building as well. What can you say? They just mastered this concept."

Prado Sellinder agreed: "Foster is getting so good at these perfect details like where the different materials meet. Seamless."

"Why are Apple stores always so big, when they contain so little?" asked Alfred Hitchcock. "Waste of space and natural resources."

Nature For All was also concerned about resources, questioning "how may oak trees had to be destroyed? This store is yet another example of man-made consumerism, which drives destruction."

What do you make of the plans? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Art does not have to be 'useful' but it should carry some meaning" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed recently released trainers informed by Frank Lloyd Wright sketches.

Kith released a pair of New Balance trainers informed by Frank Lloyd Wright sketches, but commenters weren't convinced by the connection to the 20th-century architect's work.

"Nothing to do with Frank Lloyd Wright"

Mark Favermann considered the trainers "seem like quite a weird stretch to capture the design aesthetic of FLW".

Paul was more forthright in asserting "these sport shoes have nothing to do with FLW. Stupid marketing."

"If these had been made of wood and stone, with water-flicking technology that generates little waterfalls at various angles, I might have been convinced," joked dc2bcn.

Snessnyc conjured a fun mental image when they asked "can anyone imagine FLW wearing sneakers?" But Layla thinks "these are fuego".

On fire or Frank Lloyd flop? Join the discussion ›

"A very finely done, right-scale, well-planned building"

London practice Archio has completed white brick housing block for London Community Land Trust overlooking a new public square. "Extremely well done," commented JZ. "Love the scale of the intervention, the planning, materials and detailing."

Melon thought that "the modelling and shadows already add interest, and when the residents start to occupy the balconies with planting, parasols and personal touches that white will form a nice canvas."

"Bravo, said Marius. "Another example of a subsidised housing project designed by architects with care and effort."

They continued "this is a very finely done, right-scale, well-planned building – kudos. It is tight, yet thought-through in detail, and it dignifies the experience of living there. White brick is a great choice. London can take some brighter tones."

However Alfred Hitchcock thought "the white brick makes it look rather institutional and characterless." Gytis Bickus echoed the sentiment when they said it "looks like a bit of a blank canvas at the moment".

Brilliant white or blank canvas? Join the discussion ›

"Cuteness in architecture"

North Arrow Studio completed a corrugated metal accessory dwelling unit in Austin, Texas, featuring a custom, circular pivot window that is reminiscent of the round opening in a birdhouse. Commenters debated its merits.

IDracula thought it was "Cuteness in architecture, love this little structure."

"Interesting plan and fun windows," agreed Otto ADU. "Especially curious about the garage door in the living room. Did that have to be permitted as a garage space in Austin?"

Butnotreally wanted answers as well, asking "what is the purpose of the garage door in the living room?"

"The exterior resembles a roadside auto repair shop, while the interior beams have the sterility of an operating theatre," commented Cmabe55. "Nice touch to give it the impression of an avian dwelling, as I can't imagine humans wanting to live in such a silly yet dull space."

Beautiful birdhouse or bird-brained dull space? Join the discussion ›

"Maybe this is what happens when you get so big and in demand"

Dutch studio MVRDV has released visuals of Van Gogh Homeland, an architecture and sustainability biennale launching in the Netherlands named after Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, which will attempt to shine a light on the environmental pressures and flood risks currently facing North Brabant's landscapes.

Commenters were cynical about what Van Gogh had to do with any of it.

HeywoodFloyd was upvoted for saying the project "can most charitably be described as confusing".

"With the exception of some remarkable recent projects, MVRDV's approach to architecture continues to become increasingly jokey, erratic and superficial," reflected Architect Incognito. "So many talented people work there, but to me, the output appears more and more frantic and in search of the next big formal gesture."

"Maybe this is what happens when you get so big and in demand, and clients basically assume your genius and look to you for confirmation: too few people tell you that what you propose is just pure sh*t," they continued.

Tom Roberts joined in, lamenting "a lot of ugly, while the artist created such dynamic beauty."

Some were reminded of another similar MVRDV project in London that was recently a bit of a disaster. "Another dry grass pile of scaffolding coming to your town," said Max.

Vincent van great or van godawful? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Nothing to do with Frank Lloyd Wright" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed Niall McLaughlin Architects' red-brick International Rugby Experience museum in Limerick, Ireland.

Stirling Prize-winning studio Niall McLaughlin Architects has completed a seven-storey museum in Limerick, Ireland, with vaulted ceilings and walls designed to "reflect the forces found in rugby".

The red brick International Rugby Experience was built as an attraction that celebrates the game of rugby and, while commenters love it, they're not sure about the thematic connections.

"Clearly gorgeous, but how does it celebrate the game of rugby?"

Gytis Bickus thinks the project is "simply monumental!" Rob Rohena agreed, saying it "looks like a Louis Kahn wet dream. I love it."

"Certainly a tour de force in brickwork," commented Chris D.

However, JimmyV, while finding it "a beautiful and exquisitely detailed building," failed to grasp "how it celebrates rugby".

"There seems to be a disconnect between the building's aesthetic and the building's identity, use, and purpose," they continued.

Franc Lea echoed the thought, asking "clearly gorgeous, but how does it celebrate the game of rugby?"

Free kick or unconverted try? Join the discussion ›

"Wonderful in so many ways"

Another brick project which commenters were pretty unanimous in their praise of last week was this Bangladeshi mausoleum by architecture studio Sthapotik, designed as a shrine to house the graves of a religious leader's family.

"Wonderful in so many ways," said Kevin McGrath. Others concurred: "such a beautiful piece of architecture," commented MKE Tom.

Rado Iliev thought it was "perfect" and JZ called it "tremendous".

Only Marius sounded a note of concern when they commented "seeing the quality of surrounding buildings one may question a balance between the house for the living and the one for the dead".

What do you think of this mausoleum? Join the discussion ›

"Reminds me of 1970s skyscrapers from NYC"

Grimshaw has completed the 27-storey Poly Centre office skyscraper in downtown Sydney, which is fronted by a series of arched cantilevers the studio call "sculptural in form". Readers debated the project.

"Finally a beautiful new skyscraper that doesn't look like boxes, or has trees on it from BIG. This reminds me of the 1970s skyscrapers from NYC. Very good work," said Poopie Caca

"Beautiful! Nice work, Grimshaw!" commented Michael Banak. And Jb agreed, calling the project "pretty good".

William Ford found themselves somewhere in the middle, saying "I agree that it looks like it's from the 1970s. Don't agree that it's beautiful!"

Is the latest addition to Sydney's skyline a beauty? Join the discussion ›

"Simultaneously lavish and restrained"

Multidisciplinary studio Design ni Dukaan has completed a house for entertaining guests in Gujarat, India, with board-formed concrete exterior walls that wrap the home and define internal courtyard spaces. Commenters were in awe of the rare project.

Christian Epps called it "simultaneously lavish and restrained".

"The Corb is strong in this one," said Kieran – alluding to the perceived influence of modernist architect Le Corbusier.

Heywood Floyd was appreciative of the "very nice ambiguous threshold between interior and exterior."

Is this Indian courtyard house your cup of tea? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Clearly gorgeous but how does it celebrate the game of rugby?" asks commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

Dezeen's Timber Revolution series, which ran throughout March, garnered more than 350,000 views and ignited the comments section. We round up the best of the debate.

Sloppiness and misinformation are threatening to prevent large-scale wood construction from reaching its full potential, argued Hermann Kaufmann – the "grandfather of mass timber" – in an exclusive interview with Dezeen. Readers were quick to comment.

"This business of architecture is almost always dictated by trends, as it is with interior, furniture, fashion, product design etc," reflected Romeo Reyes. "Currently, one of the hottest craze is the use of wood/timber – an ancient building material enjoying a measured renaissance of a sort."

"Architecture is almost always dictated by trends"

"Surprisingly, the usability of this material in the modern world is still not a convenient vehicle to create something fashionably trendy, but more of greenwashing opportunity," Reyes continued. "Who knows when this fad may soon be just a passing fancy?"

BigBull43 thought that "architects, engineers and the construction industry will give up on 'mass-usage' of timber when it becomes prohibitively expensive. Reinforced concrete will continue in its reign supreme. Kaufmann has said it all. What is there to add?"

"There is, of course, an excessive use of wood and, thus, mass timber in these times," commented Pa Varreon. "The fashionable abuse of it is perhaps one of the reasons – whatever the decarbonization pretexts are – that we'll realise that in a world of several billion people the protection of forests is a vital issue."

Jacopo  was keen to stress "there is a limit to renewable resource; they need to be used in a reasonable quantity. The land loses nutrients, and the land is limited, so, overall, renewable doesn't mean unlimited in an X period. Abuse of resource for projects that could be done differently with another type of material is still wrong."

They concluded "differentiation of limited and unlimited resources should be our religion, not blindly wasting the renewable because we expect them to be in infinite quantity."

What's your view on the future of timber? Join the discussion ›

"Maybe the limitations of timber and CLT are a good thing"

Dezeen asked mass-timber experts about the ongoing race to build ever-taller wooden buildings.

"For most buildings, tall timber does not make sense," said Arup fellow Andrew Lawrence. "Timber's natural home is low-rise construction," he told Dezeen. Commenters were broadly in agreement.

Zea Newland concurred, saying "given how there are more resources needed to build and maintain tall buildings, we should slowly phase out this building type anyway."

"There are many good reasons to shift the focus of construction to sustainable affordable housing instead of building more prestigious displays of power and wealth," they continued. "Maybe the inherent limitations of timber and CLT are a good thing."

A pithy and philosophical contribution to the debate came from Whateverandeveramen: "just because you can, doesn't mean you should."

For Jane the solution is holistic. "As ever, to suggest one material as the answer is to miss – and worse still divert from – realisable answers. Use timber, stone, steel, concrete, glass, aluminium and so on. In balance, the overall can be carbon negative," they commented.

How do you feel about high-rise timber projects? Join the discussion ›

"Timber will not save us and concrete will not end us"

Readers responded to an opinion piece by Smith Mordak that argued the way we build must fundamentally shift to harmonise with tree and carbon cycles.

Le Weeb contested that "there is plenty of wood to build all needed new structures, with well-managed forest resources."

But Charles Roig agreed with Mordak that "wood consumption needs to be utilized on a schedule that allows it to be consumed at, or below, the same pace as it is grown."

Colin MacGillivray advocated positively for continuing to build with timber, asking "surely when we build with timber, it locks up carbon until the building is demolished and the timber burnt? So if the timber building is in place for centuries, it is worthwhile."

"The big challenge is on our infrastructure: we simply cannot build highways and dams out of timber and this is where the biggest volume of concrete is used," contributed Arthur Mamou-Mani.

Felipe Sierra doesn't think there is one solution, commenting "we should have in mind that we grow plants in order to eat, this is not so different than growing trees in order to build our homes. If we look at the alternatives, wood stands out as a great material to overcome the climate challenge. However, we need a balanced diet. We need to use steel, concrete, glass and other carbon-intensive materials."

Tony365 was less concerned about materials, claiming that "timber will not save us and concrete will not end us. Building with salvaged materials and making sure our structures are recyclable would be a good start."

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"Maybe it's time for the earth-building revolution?"

Commenters piled in below the line of this interview with construction material expert Benjamin Kromoser who claims mass timber will not become a mainstream building product because it uses too much wood.

Paul was happily capitalist (or perhaps sarcastic) when they commented "good business, that's all that matters, then and now".

Daniel Schofield also thought the conversation could be focussed elsewhere, asking "perhaps a more relevant discussion would be on the lifespan of our buildings and their preservation? Or how can we repurpose existing buildings rather than tearing them down?"

"Waiting for the day that someone, perhaps Elon himself, suggests we simply stack used-Tesla battery packs like bricks and build houses that way," quipped Wyriwyg.

Gytis Bickus was upvoted a handful of times for suggesting "maybe it's time for the earth-building revolution? Definitely won't run out of that."

Viva la revolución! Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Timber will not save us and concrete will not end us" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed an opinion piece that argued "architecture is a hollowed-out profession with architects seemingly less vital than ever".

As architecture has evolved it has become detached from an understanding of construction and engineering that was once at the profession's core, wrote Eleanor Jolliffe in an opinion piece for Dezeen. Commenters joined the debate.

"What an architect is responsible for seems to have diminished"

"I agree with this diagnosis and would hazard that the fracturing of architectural knowledge has only contributed to the climate emergency," reflected Jbmoses.

"Even since my own registration in 1973, what an architect is responsible for seems to have diminished," lamented Colin MacGillivray.

Jonno55 thinks that "in the information age sophisticated engineering and large collaborative design and construction teams are here to stay".

Dan was scratching their head, commenting "eh? I don't know a single practising architect who isn't intimately familiar with construction techniques, material properties, structural design, building science and the plethora of other specialisms needed to make sound buildings."

What's your view on the status of the profession? Join the discussion ›

"I don't think they know what maximalism is"

On 1 April Dezeen ran a story revealing that minimalist British designer John Pawson has ditched his signature pared-back aesthetic in favour of maximalism. Readers were quick to react.

"Best April Fool's Day ever," exclaimed Aigoual. "Love it." Other readers agreed: Rd thought our prank was "excellent. And quite well done, doesn't look bad."

Kob was less enthusiastic, saying "TBF it's still minimalism. The inclusion of colour doesn't stop something from being minimal. The space is still devoid of clutter and unnecessary stuff."

"And yes, I know it's April," they were clear to add.

"I don't think they know what maximalism is," said Liam A. "This is just minimalism but with ugly colours."

April fool or English trifle? Join the discussion ›

"Right up my aesthetic driveway"

The proportions of Casa Vertical's facade – belonging to a house in Porto designed by Tsou Arquitectos – echo those of its neighbours, but the building is finished in white plaster and topped by a gently curving section.

Commenters debated the project's merits (above and top).

Marius thought it was well-planned with a "tight footprint and lovely use and balance of materials and textures: white walls, wood, stone and exposed concrete/rock".

"This is right up my aesthetic driveway," concurred Puzzello.

But Walter Astor found it "very severe" and Mark Favermann called it "rather bland".

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"Millions will keep drinking the stuff"

Drinks brand Pepsi has unveiled its fourth rebrand in 40 years with an updated logo that draws on its 1990s branding and uses black wording to draw attention to Pepsi Zero Sugar. Dezeen readers had feelings about the graphic design.

Ohoh! was confused, commenting "I don't understand how the brand font could change with every update".

"Nice idea; bad font," thought Embrita. "The diagonal move of the P kills it."

A Sound Bite thought that the "new Pepsi logo is both unattractive and unappealing but millions will keep drinking the stuff."

Upvoted more than half a dozen times, Gisstur had balanced praise for the change, calling it a "big improvement. Very clean strong. Looks great huge or small."

"The idiosyncratic custom type might not age well, but Pepsi seems content to do logo redesigns every decade or so. For now it looks fresh and interesting," they continued.

Pepsi or Coke? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "What an architect is responsible for seems to have diminished" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed Specht Architects' glass pavilion house in the Berkshires and debated a toilet made from wood chips.

Specht Architects has designed a residential, symmetrical glass pavilion in The Berkshires, Massachusetts, as a place to showcase antiques.

Commenters saw echoes of Mies van der Rohe's Farnsworth House, a glass house in Illinois completed in 1951 by the 20th century modernist architect.

"I'd love to have a client like this"

Archi thought it was simultaneously a "tired Farnsworth concept, but this is really well done. The roof almost magically floats with its thin profile. Hidden structure and system is brilliant."

Betty Rubble agreed. "Yes, it feels Farnsworth, but it's still gorgeous."

The studio told Dezeen how they rarely get the chance "to design an 'object' house on a completely open site without neighbouring buildings" and commenter Meesh concurred, saying "I'd love to have a client like this".

Alfred Hitchcock was upvoted for commenting "beautiful exhibition display cabinet – or is it meant to be a home?"

What do you think of the project? Join the discussion ›

"Another plastic object with some wood stirred-in, claiming to be sustainable"

Finnish design company Woodio launched a toilet made from wood chips mixed with fossil-based polyester and bioplastic resins, which they claim generates 99 per cent fewer emissions than the production of traditional ceramic sanitaryware.

Commenters were sceptical about the product's credentials and functionality.

"You had me until 'fossil-based polyester and bioplastic resins'," commented Youreastar.

JoeBob was similarly underwhelmed, asking "wood bound together with resin, or plastic with wood bits in?"

"Another plastic object with some wood stirred-in, claiming to be sustainable. File this under greenwashed future-microplastics and move on," said Al Ki.

Upvoted by half a dozen other commenters was Walter Astor for explaining "the beauty of white porcelain is that you immediately know if the toilet is or is not clean".

"I'm not sure I would feel the same way about this mottled product whose surface seems almost designed to conceal a world of stains and other undesirable human waste," they continued.

Would you want this toilet in your home? Join the discussion ›

"Just a large-scale pointless bit of mall art'

A giant canopy filters light through circular openings above this public plaza in Sydney, which Ghanaian-British architect David Adjaye's studio has created with artist Daniel Boyd.

Readers debated how successful the project was at highlighting the site's heritage, once the land of the Eora nation – a group of Aboriginal Australians.

Anthony Sully called it "yet another example of material and form having nothing to do with an indigenous culture".

"It is up to Aboriginal people to choose how they represent their culture, and contemporary representations should be celebrated," countered Ron.

Meanwhile, JZ admired "the visual effects of the perforated plane – that works really well. And the recognisable but exaggerated form of the building is sublime."

However, local resident IW didn't agree, saying "I live in Sydney and walk past this most days. It's awful – that canopy is just a large-scale pointless bit of mall art."

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"How long did it take them to come up with that?"

The City of New York released an updated version of its unofficial emblem – Milton Glaser's iconic "I NY" logo – as part of a citywide campaign to "inspire optimism and civic action" post-pandemic.

The updated wordmark, created by graphic designer Graham Clifford, reads "WE NYC" in a blocky sans serif typeface. Readers were quick to head to the comments section.

Darin Kirschner felt that the new logo "doesn't lock up, it doesn't balance, and the type and the heart icon look from different worlds so it lacks cohesion."

"How long did it take them to come up with that?" asked Alex. "I would like to see what else was on the drawing board to get an idea of how much the clients had their say," they added.

ScuffedShoes was damning: "As a life-long New Yorker I can say with some confidence that this is an awful design in pretty much every way: concept, design, history, or any other criterion."

Do you like the new logo? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "The recognisable but exaggerated form is sublime" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers discussed an opinion piece arguing against awarding the Pritzker prize to David Chipperfield and continued debating 15-minute cities, following an interview with its creator.

Chipperfield's work is "on the whole bland, unimaginative and overly grandiose" wrote architecture critic Aaron Betsky in an opinion piece for Dezeen, following his Pritzker Architecture Prize win.

Readers rushed to the comments section.

"What Betsky calls bland, I call quiet"

"What Betsky calls bland, I call quiet. It is a matter of taste," offered the sagacious Rd.

AA argued "old-style architectural criticism of this kind is constantly mired in the optics of things – it's a shallow appreciation of the art and the profession".

"I appreciate Betsky's attempt to back up his opinion by discussing specific aesthetic criteria, but this doesn't really read as much more than his personal top ten list," thought Heywood Floyd

"I agree with this article but disagree that Chipperfield's work is borderline irrelevant. It is just underscoring the challenge of selecting a single architect for an award from across the entire world," added Archi.

Other commenters also turned their lens onto the Pritzker prize itself. "The Pritzker 'jury' are desperately seeking conflict and publicity to promote an award that is irrelevant," asserted Certa Cito.

If Betsky finds Chipperfield unusually bland, grandiose or unimaginative, Whateverandeveramen thinks he "should probably read the list of previous winners".

Adrain Chaffey was upvoted more than a dozen times for saying "to be both bland and overly grandiose seems like a difficult combination to bring off."

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"The proportions are all off"

Architecture studio The DHaus Company has completed a row of six brick-clad townhouses in a north London conservation area. On the whole, Dezeen readers were in favour of the development.

"Beautiful pure forms!" commented Frank. "Love the colonnade-like feel."

Zea Newland found them "absolutely lovely" and Jb agreed, describing the project as "sensitive, respectful and creative".

However, some were more balanced in their appraisals. JZ found the project "robust and luxurious, but I don't get the scale decision".

"I would have pulled up the building by a floor, pulled it to the street and flipped the plan to put the living room/courtyard on the quiet side," they continued.

"Beautiful details and design, but the proportions are all off," chimed in Mac Burns.

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"Rage against the 15-minute city is mostly fabricated by media"

In the past month urbanist Carlos Moreno's 15-minute-city concept, which proposes creating communities where people can access key amenities by travelling no more than 15 minutes on foot or by bike, has become the basis of viral conspiracy theories.

In an exclusive interview with Dezeen, Moreno responded to the "shocking" conspiracy theories and commenters were ready to join the conversation.

"Rage against the 15-minute city is mostly fabricated by media who profit from hatred," said Cranky Franky. "The 15-minute city being a good story, fake news media want to generate outrage against it – to sell advertising."

"I suggest to Carlos Moreno that he should simply ignore imbeciles writing nonsense on social media," said a supportive Alfred Hitchcock. "People who strive to achieve good things for the benefit of others are importan"t

"We are all restricted," commented Tony365. "Cars and suburban planning only give the illusion of freedom. A 15-min city is not 'globalist', it is localist."

Gytis Bickus posted the most popular comment under the story when they said "stop giving the limelight to this vocal minority of people with too much time on their hands. The real conspiracy is who is the shepherd behind these sheep? Follow the money, who loses out to 15-min cities?"

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"Are we not painting it a bit green?"

Dutch architecture studio GAAGA has created a residential building in the forested Bosrijk park in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, which is wrapped by colonnades of tree trunks. Readers shared their thoughts in the comment section.

Marius queried the sustainability credentials, asking "are we not painting it a bit green? It is a concrete structure with steel columns on a concrete base with exposed wood cladding and a row of tree-trunk balcony supports. Very nice though."

But Stef was effusive in their praise. "Just beautiful and texture-rich. Would like to live in this wooden palace... Exquisite details. Bravo!"

"This reminds me why I like Dutch architecture so much," added Mkgr4

Stutelf put it simply, saying "this made me smile."

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The lead image is of the Morland Mixité Capitale in Paris, by David Chipperfield Architects. Photography by Simon Menges.

The post "To be both bland and overly grandiose seems difficult" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing projects by 2023's Pritzker Architecture Prize winner and debating the need to reduce mass-timber structures' raw-material use.

To celebrate David Chipperfield winning the 2023 Pritzker Architecture Prize, we rounded up 15 key projects by the British architect and readers debated the merits of his more than four-decades output.

"Chipperfield's buildings don't try to overshadow the purpose they have been created for"

Lorenzo Corti commented that "he should have won it long ago as his body of work is so vast and coherent and he has influenced, globally, lots of architects during his career".

"I appreciate how Chipperfield's buildings don't try to overshadow the purpose they have been created for and still manage to be more than just pragmatic," said Zea Newland.

DPatrick agreed with others, saying "I find his work very calming, but not dull. A nice place to rest your eyes. I'd love to visit all of them."

But Tom Roberts thought Chipperfield "is not of the caliber of previous winners".

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

"Inspiring what can be done with a Victorian terrace"

Pashenko Works revamped and extended a Victorian terrace in Camberwell, south London, using exposed blockwork and corrugated steel to bring an industrial feel to the project and more than doubling its existing floor area.

Commenters were effusive in their praise.

AlfredHitchcock was taken with the top-lit, double-height volume above the sitting area, calling it "clever and delightful".

"Inspiring to see what can be done with a typical Victorian terrace," commented Chris. "Lovely crisp detailing as well," they continued.

Meanwhile, JP loved "the wildflower meadow in a city garden".

Lies Vde liked the "combination of raw and refined materials".

"If you like the industrial feel, leave it exposed – but a future owner can always fur it out a wee bit," commented JZ.

Do you like the exposed blockwork and industrial feel of this renovation? Join the discussion ›

"Men don't really place themselves in the shoes of women"

In an opinion piece for International Women's Day, Arup's Sara Candiracci reflected on how cities are still overwhelmingly designed for men – and how to change that. Readers joined the debate.

DutchDesigner_N said "some men are put off by the word 'inclusive' alone, but it simply means being considerate of your fellow human".

"As a man you don't really place yourself in the shoes of women and how much more dangerous a situation can be for them," reflected Rogelio Rodriguez.

Shioka thinks "gender equality is poor" and Fluffy Thoughts "would love to see more inclusively-designed spaces".

How do you think cities can be designed best for everyone? Join the discussion ›

"Wood is only renewable if we replant"

Commenters discussed a piece Maximilian Pramreiter wrote for Dezeen's Timber Revolution arguing the importance of reducing mass-timber structures' raw-material use, instead of trying to design the tallest possible wooden building.

Marius is concerned that "wood is only renewable if we replant what we cut out in a reasonable way, or we use what we farm".

"The whole positive embodied carbon also requires reforestation so that the forests can perform at optimal," agreed Jason Ross.

JZ was upvoted for saying "material efficiency needs to be coupled with a discussion on adaptive reuse".

The author joined the debate to encourage those commenting. "The reuse, repurpose and recycling of building materials needs to play a key role in future material developments." said Max Pramreiter.

What do you think the best way to use timber is in future? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "A coherent and influential body of work" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing Clouds AO's wrapped cultural hub in Japan and Reinier de Graaf's call for architects to stop using vacuous buzzwords.

A spiralling facade of stainless steel panels wraps around a new cultural centre in Fukuoka, Japan, designed by Clouds AO in collaboration with NKS2 Architects and Takumi Nakahara Architects (pictured above). Commenters debated the project's success.

"What value does the wrapping add?"

CrankFranky mused on whether the wrapping helps with solar shading, asking "what value does this wrapping add to the functionality of the building?"

Corbus Ghost thought the wrapping was only aesthetic, replying that it "makes the form dynamic and iconic, which suits a cultural building".

"When ya run out of ideas ... Wrap it!" quipped iDracula.

Marius was similarly dismissive, describing the wrapper as "naive or banal and meeting the ground awkwardly".

"There will be some head bumps caused by the edges coming down to the walkway at an angle", they cautioned.

Do you think the wrapped facade is a success? Join the discussion ›

"Architects do some excellent dancing"

Reinier de Graaf, partner at Dutch studio OMA, wrote an opinion piece for Dezeen this week about how "Listening to any contemporary conversation on architecture is like being indulged in a form of Orwellian Newspeak"

In the piece, De Graaf argued that architects must stop using the vacuous buzzwords that dominate the profession if they are to make a positive difference in the world. Dezeen readers waded into the comments section to debate the topic.

"The more architects are selling, the more generic the platitudes," commented JZ. "The more they are at liberty to offer candid takes, the more you will hear how the sausage gets made."

"And there's a lot of atmosphere between those extremes, where architects do some excellent dancing," they added.

Wyriwyg also acknowledged the challenges of communication, saying "the failure to speak to your audience without treating them as ignorant fools and also not speaking past them applies to many fields, not just architecture."

Tom Roberts contributed a potential aphorism, stating: "Buzzwords seldom translate to positive results."

But Harry Belafonte 3rd spiked the debate, arguing that "spin is good – after all, who wants to buy a loaf of bread when it could be sourdough?"

Meanwhile, Alfred Hitchcock was "surprised that OMA were making this complaint when their PR people might be one of the worst offenders."

What do you think about the use of buzzwords in architecture? Join the discussion ›

"The right scale for this typology"

International architecture studio SOM completed a terminal for Kansas City International Airport that features a large wood-clad canopy. Readers were generally delighted with the project.

"Very attractive and understated," commented Whateverandeveramen.

Ken agreed, saying "the use of natural materials creates a peaceful environment and this wood application is a very good choice for a busy public space".

"High impact and nicely lit. And, at the right scale for this typology," chipped in Franc Lea. "Which is not always the case."

But JB was less enthused: "It looks like an airport terminal. Well done."

Is the SOM-designed airport a high impact-building? Join the discussion ›

"There is a limit to renewable resource"

Sloppiness and misinformation are threatening to prevent large-scale wood construction from reaching its full potential, argued Hermann Kaufmann – the "grandfather of mass timber" – in an interview with Dezeen as part of our Timber Revolution series.

Pa Varreon commented: "There is an excessive use of wood and mass timber in these times. The fashionable abuse of it is perhaps one of the reasons, whatever the decarbonisation pretexts are, we will realise that the protection of forests is vital."

"Just look at the airport in Kansas City just published here. Was it really necessary to use wood ceiling and soffit there in such huge quantities? How many trees had to be felled to build that?" asked Apsco Radiales.

But Colin MacGillivray argued "if timber is farmed like pinus radiata in New Zealand, then every 25-30 years carbon is locked up in houses and a fresh crop is started. No shortage if done properly. Or bamboo (which is grass)."

"There is a limit to renewable resources; they need to be used in a reasonable quantity. The land loses nutrients and the land is limited, so overall, renewable doesn't mean unlimited in an X period," countered Jacopo.

What are your thoughts on building with timber? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "When you run out of ideas... wrap it!" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing the announcement that Kenzo Tange's modernist gymnasium is set to be demolished.

It was confirmed this week that the post-war landmark completed in 1964 by Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning architect Kenzo Tange in Takamatsu, Japan, will be demolished. Dezeen readers responded to the news in the comments section.

Tom Roberts was upvoted for commenting "it is an oddly interesting building that should not be lost".

"A remarkable building that it would be in Japan's interest to conserve," observed James Dunnett. "Conserving one building does not rule out creating more elsewhere."

Marius was in a more practical mood, saying "we cannot save all we build".

"The building isn't fit for purpose," said an equally unbothered Sharad Majumdar. "I look forward to whatever comes next."

Hideous, oddly interesting or remarkable? Join the discussion ›

"A simple solution to produce a fantastic result"

Brooklyn studio Elizabeth Roberts Architects completed a cedar alpine house in the Catskills Mountains that connects two gabled forms underground. On the whole, commenters loved the project.

Tony365, however, was conflicted, saying "it is a lovely set of buildings. The fit and finish are great. But I kinda hate it."

"The scale messes with your head," said JZ. "You think of this as a modest, cozy cottage, but it's 3,500 square feet with three full and two half bathrooms!"

But Richard Leonard was unequivocal in his love, finding it to be a "great example of a simple solution (using the grade to bury the connected volume) to produce a fantastic result (two volumes at street level that feel much smaller)."

"Great choices throughout; the finishes are gorgeous (drooling over the tile and the white oak) and the plan is impeccable. Beautiful work," they continued.

What do you make of this cedar-clad Catskills project? Join the discussion ›

"Raises more questions than it seeks to answer"

Architecture studio Urb proposed creating The Loop as a covered highway for cyclists and pedestrians that would wrap around Dubai and commenters weren't impressed.

Muckers270 thought the proposal was "a shockingly bad project that raises more questions than it seeks to answer." Alfred Hitchcock concurred, saying: "Further evidence of what happens when there's far too much money and no awareness or even common sense."

"To be fair, you probably need air conditioning in Dubai to encourage biking and cycling but wouldn't it make sense to cover existing streets with some sort of canopy and encourage walking and cycling in a three-kilometre radius for a start?" asked Zea Newland.

Meanwhile Jacopo was discouraged, saying "sometimes you wonder why we bother doing green single-family homes when people are allowed to make a glass snake of conditioned air in the middle of the desert 93-kilometres long."

Is the air-conditioned Loop a good idea for Dubai? Join the discussion ›

"The utter irrationality of it"

In New York, photographer Iwan Baan released images of Anish Kapoor's long-awaited reflective sculpture at the base of Herzog & de Meuron's 56 Leonard Street skyscraper.

Betty Rubble expressed feelings other commenters agreed with: "I get a big charge out of this. The utter irrationality of it. The tension of that massive building resting on it, going to make a massive pop any second... Kicks you in the frontal cortex."

"I kept smiling – even laughed – as I read the article," said Charlie Bing. "This feels like a special piece of work."

Ken Steffes had fun thinking of nicknames for the sculpture, saying "a good name would be 'refried bean' or 'Beano'."

Was JB being cynical when they commented "this is a very fine gimmick by one of the very best gimmick mongers"?

Gimmick or masterpiece? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "We cannot save all we build" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing Saudi Arabia's plans for a giant cube-shaped supertall skyscraper in downtown Riyadh.

The overwhelming response from commenters to the cube-shaped skyscraper was to draw comparisons with the Star Trek alien group The Borg, whose space ship was known as The Borg Cube due to its shape.

Paul L asked "have The Borg landed?"

"The Borg Cube has landed and Jean-Luc Picard will convince you all to join," answered Wyriwig.

Andyandysh reminded readers The Borg have already warned they would come for us: "'Strength is irrelevant. Resistance is futile. We wish to improve ourselves. We will add your biological and technological distinctiveness to our own' – The Borg".

JZ considered it in a different light, commenting "[it] reminds me of a bit of Boullée, which is appealing but the power of that project was the absence of commerce".

Gytis Bickus was upvoted for echoing a similar sentiment with their question: "will they run out of oil or ideas first?"

Meanwhile Justlikemyopinionman just wanted to know if the video contained a dinosaur. "Was that a pterodactyl?" they queried.

Does The Borg mean anything to you? (They're coming) Join the discussion ›

"Killer home for birds"

Belgian practice Studio Okami Architecten's mirror-clad woodland villa in Antwerp, garnered a slew of comments concerned for local birdlife.

"The mirror cladding doesn't make the house disappear, it just makes it look ridiculous," said Alfred Hitchcock. "It will also be covered in dead birds, regardless of what the architect thinks."

HiKoo joked that if the house disappears in reflections of the surrounding forest, "it'll make birds disappear also".

"The vanity of humankind at the expense of nature!" lamented ThinkAgain. "Confusing for poor birds and many unnecessary deaths."

JMT was equally damning: "RIP to thousands of birds that die for this architect's ego. Congrats, you are the problem."

"Just ask the birds hitting this 'invisible' building what they think of this – oh wait, they're dead," added Bunkermentality.

Two pithy comments captured the one-sided reaction. Richard Porteous named the project "a magnet for birdstrike" and Hosta summed up a lot of readers feelings when they said "'architects' really need to stop with this mirrored-cladding nonsense".

Will architects ever consider the birds? Join the discussion ›

"Another amateur designer at a big name house"

American record producer and musician Pharrell Williams has been named creative director of menswear at French fashion house Louis Vuitton, a position previously held by the late Virgil Abloh.

"Another amateur designer at a big name house," said Tom Roberts. "No continuity and no true inspiration."

"Just goes to show you, there is no skill needed to become a fashion designer," agreed Timothy Wang.

Trewus was slightly more perceptive, claiming the appointment is "just a marketing gimmick."

"Is it a job, and is it based on merit? Or is it marketing?" echoed Cet.

The most popular comment under the article was from Clarence Somerset who considered that "the celebrity counts for more than the brand. No doubt Louis Vuitton has an army of the finest technicians to actually translate Pharrell's ideas to actual clothes."

Do you think Pharrell has any cred for the new gig? Join the discussion ›

"We're past the point of believing he wants what's best for everyone"

US-based entrepreneur Elon Musk's Boring Company is developing a 110-home site in Texas for local company workers.

The complex will be developed by homebuilder Lennar, who is already building 100 3D-printed houses outside Austin, Texas, with BIG and ICON. Readers have split opinions on Elon Musk's plans.

Tony365 isn't a fan, calling Musk "an investor, a pure capitalist. I don't care about giant electric cars or ugly 3D-printed houses. I would like a nice walkable urban landscape with vibrant street life, reusing what we already have instead of taking up more land for another community. Such a waste."

"We actually are using all the sustainable materials that we have available by 3D-printing homes, instead of slaughtering forests for lumber," rejoined Juicy.

"You haven't even seen what is proposed… you are simply responding to anti-Musk liberal narrative," said Bill Barker to a handful of downvotes.

Jacopo was despondent, reflecting "I think we're past the point of believing that he actually wants what's best for everyone here".

What do you think of Elon Musk's housing? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Will they run out of oil or ideas first?" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing an opinion piece that claims "AI is putting our jobs as architects unquestionably at risk".

In the opinion piece, AI author and Florida International University professor Neil Leach writes "architects urgently need to get to grips with the existential threat posed by AI" or risk "sleepwalking into oblivion".

Leach starts his article with a paragraph generated by ChatGPT, a recently-launched AI text generator, which Leach argues "is already putting some jobs at risk". Commenters had a strong reaction.

Archi said "nothing is replacing human designers in our lifetimes".

Meanwhile, JZ remained "confident that the human brain's irrational capabilities will never be reproduced authentically".

"We're approaching the peak of inflated expectations of AI generation, (which will be a tool in the future, no doubt)," commented Marc Sicard.

"Wait till ChatGPT finds out how much architects make. It'll be switching to TikTok dances in no time," quipped LoveYourHairHopeYouWin.

Some were more optimistic about the potential for AI. John79LK thought it was "pretty exciting that AI could replace large swathes of design, maybe it will help to raise the bar across all sectors."

TinSoldier doesn't think it's something to be afraid of, but rather adapt to: "The role of designer across many domains may need to evolve to AI designer/curator."

Do you think AI poses an "existential threat"? Join the discussion ›

"Take example from Japan"

An opinion piece on the recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria ignited the comments section this week, with many holding up Japan as worth learning from when it comes to building in earthquake zones.

In the opinion Worldchanging Institute founder Cameron Sinclair wrote "earthquakes don't kill people, bad buildings do".

In the comment section, Manny suggested taking "example from Japan. They have strict building code laws."

Marius responded "there is yet another thing to be learned from the Japanese. Their smart earthquake-resistant designs are not the result of the strict building codes but learning from the past. Codes just express lessons learned."

"The international design and engineering communities need to step it up and help the indigenous architects make a difference here," commented Sheila Jeffrey.

Peter Wilson was upvoted for his analysis "The progressive structural collapse of so many buildings surely indicates their structural design and construction was never fit for purpose from the moment they were completed."

What do you think architects' role is following natural disasters? Join the discussion ›

"I've always wanted to be composted!"

American startup Recompose has opened a funeral home in Seattle designed by architecture firm Olson Kundig, where human remains are composted and turned into a nutrient-rich soil. Commenters have mixed feelings.

"This is amazing," commented Amanda Grimes. "As a garden designer and gardener, I've always said I wanted to be composted. The nearest I could find was a wool coffin and a natural burial plot. I hope this idea takes off this side of the pond!"

ATX wasn't sure, saying it "sounds ghoulish". And Miles Teg was underwhelmed, asking "I thought worms did that for free, for decades?"

Tiffany Ng thought it was a good alternative: "This adds an appealing funeral alternative, although the shiny white surfaces are a bit trendy for me.

Małgorzata Bogusław had different concerns, commenting "I am vegetarian. I wouldn't like to eat veggies grown on dead people."

Would you like to be composted when your time comes? Join the discussion ›

"Did they make it smell like a trainer too?"

Automotive brand Nissan has collaborated with sportswear company New Balance to create the Kicks 327 – a car that resembles a trainer.

Created to promote Nissan's electric Kicks SUV, the collaboration is a play on the car's name, which is slang for trainers. Commenters were feeling funny below the line.

Gus T Butt joked "Did they make it smell like a trainer too?"

"Now we need shoes to have headlights and taillights!" added Zee.

ArtyVisual, with a pinch of sarcasm, commented "yes, this is what the world needs from designers... :("

Earnest or otherwise, Franc Lea exclaimed "I have always wanted to drive around in a giant sneaker!"

Would you take this car out for a jog? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The lead image is generated by DALL·E 2 software from the terms "red brick Mies van der Rohe family home". 

The post "Nothing is replacing human designers in our lifetimes" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing the outcome of Tate Modern's supreme court privacy case and debating Formafatel's pair of rammed-earth villas in Costa Rica.

The supreme court last week ruled that residents of the luxury Neo Bankside flats on the south bank of the Thames live as though they are "on display in a zoo" because of Tate Modern's Herzog & de Meuron-designed viewing platform.

Neo Bankside residents brought the winning case to the supreme court following its dismissal from both the high court in 2019 and the court of appeals in 2022.

"What an anti-urban ruling"

Dezeen readers were largely unimpressed by the judgement, with commenter Prado Sellinder calling it "anti-urban".

"Don't live in a glass tower in the city centre if you don't want anyone to see you," they argued. "What precedent does this set across the city? Or does this ruling only apply to the ultra-wealthy?"

Commenter Think, meanwhile, proposed an unconventional solution to the highly publicised dispute. "An enterprising resident should have just rented out an apartment as a shooting location for adult entertainment," they wrote. "Suspect a screen would have gone up at the Tate pretty quick."

Of the few commenters who sided with the supreme court, Jonno55 thought the fault lay with "the planners and designers who didn't foresee this situation arising during the design and approvals stage".

"This judgement feels right to me, and the steps taken to prevent it from opening the floodgates to hundreds of less acute and unique grievances are prudent," they added.

What are your thoughts on the ruling? Join the discussion ›

"Nice architecture, but not in touch with the environment where it stands"

Commenters were conflicted over Formafatal's pair of rammed earth villas on a jungled hillside in Costa Rica.

"Just lovely, but I was surprised to see the second just three meters away," wrote Steve Hassler. "Not much privacy,"

Fernando Dobles was also concerned about the project's practicality, commenting "whoever has ever seen an October downpour in Costa Rica will understand how flawed the external living areas are. Nice architecture, but not in touch with the environment where it stands."

Jb was among the commenters who were cynical about the project's use of rammed earth. "The mud was a laughable attempt to divert attention from the architect's very obvious obsession with glass steel and concrete modernism," they wrote.

Do you think the project prioritises form over function? Join the discussion ›

"Maybe practise what you preach?"

A recent talk by Morphosis founder Thom Mayne, in which the architect hinted at his involvement in a "big planning thing in Saudi Arabia", sparked a flurry of debate in our comments section. His comments further fuelled speculation that his studio is designing The Line.

"Good luck to Thom Mayne for taking responsibility for the 170-kilometre-long non-architectural joke," commented Pa varreon.

Dimitris Tsekeris agreed: "I always admired Mayne for his views on the urban environment's complexity. I could never in my life believe that he would participate in something as simple-minded and moronic as a 170-kilometre, mirror-clad skyscraper."

"Everything he says here hits the nail on the head and is something everyone in architecture needs to understand," wrote CallMeCatbread in response to Mayne's comments on architecture's need to focus on "broader issues".

"That said," they continued, "it's not like Morphosis itself really exemplifies any of this and their involvement in The Line is despicable and to the detriment of the rest of the profession. So maybe practise what you preach?"

What do you make of Mayne's comments? Join the discussion ›

"A sticking plaster on a gaping wound"

Another interview that got readers talking this week was with ProxyAddress founder Chris Hildrey, who told Dezeen "an architect who only designs buildings is like a doctor who only prescribes paracetamol."

The architect founded ProxyAddress in 2018, which is a social enterprise that provides people experiencing homelessness with a fixed address.

"Great initiative!" wrote Krisztian Nyuzo. "The lack of comments show where people's priorities lie though (shiny skyscrapers)."

Milton Welch agreed, saying "the title prompted me to think that the article is about 'an architect as a lid for just about any pot'. Pleasantly surprised".

Ralph Kent, however, took a different view, likening the social enterprise to "a sticking plaster on a gaping wound". "It's an interesting point but you could also argue that ProxyAddress doesn't really address the issue of homelessness to any meaningful degree," they wrote.

What do you think? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Does this ruling only apply to the ultra-wealthy?" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing MVRDV's envisioning for Vancouver's waterfront in the year 2100 and the "world's most aggressive SUV".

Dutch architecture studio MVRDV released a study that aims to offer possible solutions to urban planning in the face of rising sea levels by reimagining the Vancouver waterfront.

The Sea Level Rise Catalogue looks at methods for adapting to rising sea levels, which according to the IPCC could rise as much as two metres by 2100

Readers had a mixed response in the comment section, with some querying if this is really what Vancouver most needs.

"2100 is only 74 years away"

Chuck Anziulewicz said the design "looks like an awfully idyllic response to climate change. I suspect that life will not be quite so pleasant".

"Vancouver has a much greater problem with housing and social issues than rising sea levels," suggested Apsco Radiales.

However Pipeline Pete thinks that "considering that the average life span of a building is 100 years, it's time to start thinking about rising sea levels, in addition to housing shortage, commercial growth, earthquakes, poor air quality from forest fires etc. 2100 is only 74 years away."

"With high construction costs and labour shortages, it's smart to start planning an urban build-out with longer and durable cradle-to-grave life that mitigates a myriad of natural force de majeure and man-made threats," they continued.

Jose is excited, saying "looks really nice. Can't wait!"

What do you think of the plans for Vancouver? Join the discussion ›

"Those tiles would look great on my bathroom walls"

Dutch studio Mecanoo clad a triangular house in the Netherlands entirely in pearlescent ceramic tiles. Commenters were delighted and curious in equal measures.

"Smashing roofline!" said Betty Rubble. "Design is delightful. 10/10. As a dabbler in all things crafty, I am swooning over this tile. I needs me those glazes."

Archi was in agreement, commenting "I find this beautiful and appropriately scaled."

Colonel Pancake wasn't so sure, suggesting an amendment to the article's headline: "*Mecanoo covers Dutch house in future leaking roof."

Others were similarly concerned. "I'd like to see a detail of the tile and the adhesion technique for all this tile and grout. This just begs to let water into the structure", commented IDracula.

Would you cover your house entirely in tiles? Join the discussion ›

"Perfect for the school run"

Automotive company Rezvani Motors launched a car with security features including electrified door handles and pepper spray-emitting wing mirrors.

Readers have had a strong reaction to the car, especially on Instagram where more than 400 comments were left under the post it featured in.

In the Dezeen comment section, Jacob Volanski reflected "it is disconcerting that the current cultural climate is receptive to such militarization of everyday life".

"Perfect for the school run," quipped Onlythelonely. But Henry Swanzy found the car "depressing on every level".

James thinks it is "amazing that this is touted as a lifestyle vehicle because, in order to need one, your lifestyle would have to include A) living in a desolate war zone, or B) being so contemptible that people actively want to do you harm. Although I suppose driving the vehicle in public would instantly qualify you for option B."

Charles Roig only has one concern; "price?" they asked.

Do you think this car is necessary (for civilians)? Join the discussion ›

"All our heroes are dead"

International architecture studios including Adjaye Associates, UNStudio, Morphosis, Studio Fuksas and Coop Himmelb(l)au have been named in a Riyadh exhibition as working on The Line megacity in Saudi Arabia.

Currently under construction in Saudi Arabia, The Line is being designed by numerous international studios, with each practice reportedly working on a 500-metre section.

Richard Porteous has "so many questions..." and Gytis Bickus is "gobsmacked".

"This is one weird project," commented Puzzello. "I've never experienced a more publicized architectural event involving so many famous design offices, yet shrouded in so much uncertainty, lack of clarity, and denialism."

Alejandro Bravo C thought "of course everything is money. But Adjaye? That was surprising." JZ added "all our heroes are dead now".

What do you make of these studios working on The Line? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "An awfully idyllic response to climate change" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing whether energy savings from home insulation "vanish" after four years and Pelli Clarke & Partners' Mexico City skyscraper.

The US architecture studio has completed the 267-metre-tall Mitikah skyscraper, which is now the tallest in Mexico City.

Mitikah is located in the low-rise neighbourhood of Benito Jaurez. In order to better connect the 62-storey glass tower with the surrounding area, a series of canopies were included to create a graduated entry.

Readers discussed the success of the project.

"Nice and clean but completely unnecessary"

Pablo Simg commented "it's a beautiful addition that will become a new icon for the capital and punctuates a new era for Mexico City's development."

"It's just another glass tower, designed by American architects who pretend to incorporate it into the environment and architecture of CDMX," commented Chicharron.

Jacopo was more forgiving, saying "suppose you want to have a city without cars? In that case, you need to accept towers and high density. And if the area is all low density, there will always be a "first" tower, followed by more. The context will come with time!"

"Nice and clean, but as with all buildings of this scale, completely unnecessary," said JZ.

They further explained that buildings like the Mitikah skyscraper "are a reflection of real estate speculation, based on overcoming acquisition costs and addressing the seriously messed-up lending practices of capitalism."

Out of context or a positive contribution – what do you think? Join the discussion ›

"Energy savings from home insulation don't 'vanish' after four years"

A study by the University of Cambridge found that "insulating the lofts and cavity walls of existing UK housing stock only reduces gas consumption for the first year or two, with all energy savings vanishing by the fourth year after a retrofit".

Commenters had a strong reaction to the study and the story.

ELM58 had some questions for the researchers; "With so many unknown variables in this 'study', I think Cambridge might consider trashing it and starting over with more detailed and knowledgeable data."

Thom Chesshyre was upvoted for arguing that "citing extensions as offsetting the benefits of insulation is nonsense – metrics should be about heating load per square metre, surely?"

Christopher Gibbons contested the reporting concluded from the research.

"What the study shows is that insulation has been massively successful at mitigating a wide range of bad practices," they commented. "Those bad practices are on the rise and building codes need to be updated to ensure new additions adhere to good standards of construction."

With more than a dozen upvotes, Richard Leonard laid out quite the opposite of what the story suggested. "Energy savings from home insulation don't 'vanish' after four years; instead, people increase their energy use over time, in a manner almost entirely unrelated to whether or not their walls are insulated".

What are your thoughts on this study by the University of Cambridge? Join the discussion ›

"Solid, light, and romantic"

Strang Design has created an 8,500-square foot (2,590-square meter) house with garden terraces in Miami, Florida, called Angel Oaks Residence, featuring Brazilian influences and vintage touches.

"Connectivity within the home, despite the size, was important," the studio said. "The home is large but not overly programmed to allow for very comfortable spaces to gather." Readers responded to the recently completed project.

"It looks solid, light, and romantic," observed Cet. "This is a lovely home!" chimed in Omor.

Mkgr4 also agreed "it is a lovely property", while George Panagos appreciated the "nice landscaping".

But JZ thought the project was "pompous and slightly tacky".

"Let's all have a visual reminder of how much wealth is consolidated in the hands of so few," they continued.

What do you make of Angel Oaks Residence in Miami? Join the discussion ›

"Ghastly interiors, wonderful exteriors"

Readers are discussing the interior-exterior contrast of Platform 5 Architects' family home on an infill site in north London.

"The exterior looks promising – the interior is just a major disappointment," commented Klunkrkraniche.

"Ghastly interiors, wonderful exteriors," agreed Sharad Majumdar.

Apsco Radiales also commented on the contrast. They were "not feeling the beton brut in the inside, particularly in the stairwell. Exterior brickwork is interesting".

Alfred Hitchcock captured what a lot of commenters were struggling with when they asked "if you're going to build a house from bricks, why first build a concrete bunker? If you're going to build a house from concrete, why apply an external veneer of brick?"

Do you prefer the inside or the outside of this project? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post Energy savings from home insulation "don't 'vanish' after four years" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing an opinion piece by Phineas Harper that argues "cities should not just build green transport but actively dismantle car infrastructure".

Harper suggests that instead of desperately trying to reduce road congestion in the short term, politicians should be using traffic as a tool for making urban transport more sustainable.

Many readers agreed but several took to the comments to explore how cars could be incorporated into cities, rather than designed out.

"Private cars create more problems than they solve"

Becks commented: "Maybe the discussion should be about making the car part of public transport in cities and not about private ownership."

"The much-vilified car has huge value in that it's the only mode that is ready when you want to go and goes from where you are, all the way to where you want to go – and it's yours," contested Peter Samuel.

"Cities that phase out cars will die," they continued. "People and economic activity will abandon such cities for places that do cater to cars. Cars are not the villain."

On the other side of the debate, Gytis Bickus thought that private cars will become "an outdated thing of the past".

"They are inefficient, expensive, and create more problems than they solve," they said. "Kind of like smoking was once fine, until people realised it only damages your health and everyone around you."

What do you think the future of cars is? Join the discussion ›

"Form above function"

Dutch architecture studio MVRDV has unveiled designs for a 140,000 square metre library in Wuhan with a sweeping form that takes cues from the topography of its surroundings.

While impressed, Bob Patiño worried about the functionality. "It is quite an impressive interior space, but books near the huge glass facade will discolour," he said. "The ceiling-high shelves and their contents look like a mere adornment – form above function."

JZ, however, was purely impressed by the form. "Seems like an excellent selection of dramatic shapes to strike grand gestures," they commented. "Baroque Modernism."

Other commenters discussed the friction between form and function. Leo said: "I like the shapes, but there is way too much glass for my liking."

Eugene Ely was more optimistic. "Public libraries today are not the hermetic spaces of the past," they said. "People barely read anymore anyway, it needs to be a centre of energy and interest to get people into the building in the first place. Whether it succeeds at that is a different issue."

Do you think form and function are balanced in these library plans? Join the discussion ›

"If you actually rode an electric motorcycle you’d be grinning ear to ear"

In an interview with Dezeen Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz explained how the company is transitioning to become an all-electric brand in a process that will take decades.

The news prompted debate in the comments section with Gene commenting: "Haters hate. Leaders move forward and build a new future every day."

Sean Marshall Palmer said: "Electric motorcycles do seem anticlimactic to me but, as a Harley owner, I applaud their efforts to try to stay relevant and competitive."

Jack Jones argued that even if "the electric thing is turning you off, if you actually rode a Harley-Davidson LiveWire [which is an electric motorcycle], you'd be grinning ear to ear."

Eric Mallory commented: "Harley has finally realized that 85 per cent of their customers are headed for the nursing home. Time to get some fresh blood."

Do you think electric-only models make sense for Harley-Davidson's future? Join the discussion ›

"I could live there, no problem"

Readers are discussing Sparano + Mooney's cedar-clad home, cantilevered over a canyon in Utah.

"Beautiful setting," said Apsco Radiales. "I could live there, no problem." However, they were not convinced about the black colour of the siding. "Why not white or left as is?"

Scot M thought the project was perfect. "Love the simplest of thought in the design of this home", they said.

But IDracula felt differently, calling it "another unliveable, boring house by an architect for a boring client".

Boring or beautiful, what do you think? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

Dezeen is the world's most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post "Cities that phase out cars will die" says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.