"Countries that demolish their past also demolish their future" says commenter

In this week's comments update, readers are debating the demolition of modernist architect Marcel Breuer's Geller I house in Long Island and discussing other top stories.

One of the first homes that Hungarian-American architect Breuer built in the US has been "demolished in the dead of night" to make way for a tennis court.

The home in the village of Lawrence, Long Island, was demolished on 25 January, according to preservation society Docomomo.

"They could have dismantled it and offered it free to a design school"

Readers are divided. "Countries that demolish their past also demolish their future," said Nicholas Tesdorf. "This applies even more to architecture than most categories."

"I wonder what the owners were thinking when they bought the house," added Leo. "'Let's destroy a unique piece of architecture to build a tennis court because there is not a suitable plot for our tennis court anywhere else?'"

"They could have dismantled it and offered it free to a design school to assemble at a new location," continued Tom.

ElephantInTheRoom disagreed: "This house may be historically significant, but it's not one of Brueuer's best examples. And it is ugly. Sorry to call out the obvious. It was not historically protected when the current owners bought it, so they have the right to raze it. Ever heard of private property rights?"

Should the building have been demolished? Join the discussion ›

Bee bricks become planning requirement for new buildings in Brighton

Commenter thinks bee bricks becoming a planning requirement is "terribly long overdue"

The city of Brighton and Hove in England has introduced a planning law that calls for new buildings to include special bricks that provide nests for solitary bees. Readers are buzzing.

"Man, this seems so terribly long overdue," said Steve Hassler. "What other simple solutions should we be incorporating into our lives to commune more with other lives?"

"We should also consider planting more wildflowers than fancy blossoms," replied Zea Newland. "Wildflowers can be accessed by bees more easily than 'conventionally pretty' flowers that are a lot of work but have little payoff for bees."

"This legislation can only be a good thing," concluded Comments Please. "Small measures like these can add up to make a big difference over time. We've to start being positive about any attempt to give nature a helping hand. After all, we're part of nature too."

Should bee bricks be compulsory for all new buildings? Join the discussion ›

Berlin citizens propose law to ban cars from city centre

Reader calls banning cars from Berlin's city centre "a fantastic idea"

Commenters are showing support for a campaign group named Berlin Autofrei, which has proposed a law to limit private car use within the Ringbahn train line in Berlin.

"Fantastic idea," said Ken Steffes, "and now needs to be done in many more cities around the globe."

Paul Horton continued: "This will have to be normal everywhere eventually. Some are just ahead of the curve! I hope it gets implemented."

"Berlin's not a bad city to cycle in already," replied Ian Byrne. "It's reasonably flat and public transport is reasonably good, so it probably does need some stick as well as carrots to reduce car usage much more. Whether an almost complete ban is the way to go, it's hard to say."

What do you think of the idea to ban cars in Berlin's city centre? Join the discussion ›

Heatherwick Studio proposes pier with sense of "playful togetherness" for Seoul waterfront

Commenter criticises Heatherwick Studio proposal for being "an utterly pointless waste of resources"

Readers are discussing The Leaf, a multi-level pier proposed by Heatherwick Studio for a site on the Han River near Seoul's Olympic stadium.

"Yes, let's pour tons of concrete into the ocean and give it a whimsical name," said Sharad Majumdar. "What an utterly pointless waste of resources."

竜皐一 agreed: "What's the point of building an artificial forest and grass field on the water where obviously there is active natural vegetation present on the coast? Should it be in the desert, maybe? Still, a bit of a waste of money as we all know Pier is not such a success."

"Same sh*t, different city," concluded Ralph Kent.

Are readers being harsh? 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 onour comments page.

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Commenter calls Adidas' floating tennis court a "ridiculous publicity stunt"

In this week's comments update, readers are baffled by Adidas and Parley for the Oceans' decision to float a recycled-plastic tennis court within the Great Barrier Reef and discussing other top stories.

Adidas and environmental organisation Parley for the Oceans have collaborated to create a floating tennis court in a bid to promote Adidas' latest range of apparel, which incorporates recycled plastic.

Launched to coincide with the Australian Open tennis tournament that is currently taking place in Melbourne, the colourful range of clothing is the latest collaboration between the brand and Parley for the Oceans.

"Ridiculous publicity stunt"

Readers aren't sold. "Ridiculous publicity stunt," said Apsco Radiales.

"This will help with the devastating lack of tennis balls in the ocean," joked Jam.

Goods agreed: "Nothing says environmental stewardship like installing a piece of floating plastic in an already fragile ecosystem."

"Recycle plastic but litter the ocean with tennis balls," concluded Reefs.

Are commenters missing the point? Join the discussion ›

Manhattan Island extension could provide homes for 250,000 people

Commenter claims "there is no housing shortage for millionaires and billionaires"

Rutgers professor Jason Barr's proposal to add 1,760-acres of reclaimed land to the tip of Manhattan in a bid to create more housing and combat climate change has caused controversy amongst readers.

"It's a radical idea but I like it," said Steven H. "Flood protection and space for more housing is a win-win."

John Doe disagreed: "You're worried about rising sea levels and increased flooding but putting 250,000 homes on at sea level landfill is a good idea? This is peak stupid."

"There is no housing shortage for millionaires and billionaires," added Zea Newland. "We need more housing for lower-income folks who keep the city running, but given how this plan would produce prime waterfront real estate and given how big of an investment is needed to create the land in the first place, I don't see any potential for meaningful change in regards of housing."

Is extending Manhattan a good idea? Join the discussion ›

Chunky staircase features in Farleigh Road renovation by Paolo Cossu Architects

Reader calls extra-wide oak staircase "a ludicrous design"

Paolo Cossu Architects has sparked debate by adding an extra-wide oak staircase, which doubles as a piece of furniture, to a Victorian terrace in east London.

"No stair nosing, no handrail, and the riser to tread ratio looks dangerous, " said Walter Astor. "It's easy to make a stair look novel and interesting when you refuse to comply with safety requirements mandated by the local building regulations."

"It is in fact dangerous," replied Chris Hargreaves. "What a ludicrous design."

Sim disagreed: "Or an architect has thought cleverly, in full knowledge of the facts (along with their informed client) on how to satisfy building control. Perhaps, for instance, there is a balustrade detail that can be removed – at the client's choice – when desired."

What do you think of the Farleigh Road project? Join the discussion ›

Andrés Reisinger and Alba de la Fuente design modernist house in frosty metaverse landscape

Commenter says the metaverse is "a real estate frontier"

Readers are discussing a virtual residence by digital artist Andrés Reisinger and architect Alba de la Fuente. The two-storey house is designed as a hideaway in a snowy forest and was inspired by the clean geometry of Dieter Rams' industrial designs.

"This is not bad for a metaverse build," said Archibro, "which, by the way, is a new real estate frontier. Investors are already snapping up virtual properties."

Furious B disagreed: "Already sick of the metaverse. It's literally just Second Life 2.0., and projects like this carry no more merit or need for publication than any other theoretical project. I'd rather see student projects that push boundaries than a pretty standard modernist house in a field."

"Freed from the real-world constraints of gravity and capitalism, designers of the so-called 'metaverse' insist on conforming to the real-world constraints of gravity and capitalism by mindlessly reproducing modernist designs," concluded James G. "An ideology that arose over 100 years ago."

What do you think of the metaverse? 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 onour comments page.

The post Commenter calls Adidas' floating tennis court a "ridiculous publicity stunt" appeared first on Dezeen.

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Commenter says the architecture profession is "undervalued and underpaid"

In this week's comments update, readers are debating plans by SHoP Architects' employees to form a union of architecture workers in response to an alleged culture of "endless overtime and deadlines" and discussing other top stories.

Employees of New York-based SHoP Architects have announced plans to form the first union of architecture workers since the 1940s.

Architectural Workers United filed an election petition with the National Labour Relations Board on 28 December, beginning the formal process of organising a union.

"The business structure of architecture has long been exploitive"

Readers are torn. "Good," said Chris on one hand.

"It is admirable," replied Christopher Osborn. "The crazy deadlines and all-nighters start in college, but they never stop. Now it's not the professors who are doing this, it's the clients."

"The profession is undervalued and underpaid," continued Ferran. "That is a fact. It is not just SHoP, it is the profession in general. The AIA needs to take note and come up with sustainable solutions to this issue."

Archi agreed: "The business structure of architecture has long been exploitive and a silver spoon man's game, mainly because we constantly defer risk to others. Our profession undercuts one another and proliferates free work through advanced proposals and competitions.

"We have the education and testing requirements similar to the medical field and get paid pennies for the bulk of our careers."

JB disagreed: "Sack 'em, I say. Take away their luxury accommodation and push them to the edge of civilisation – say, Brooklyn – and then we will see how these commies cope with their collective vision."

How do you feel about the union? Join the discussion ›

Nabr aims to address "systemic" failures of housing says Bjarke Ingels

Commenter says "globalising multi-family design is not the solution" to "failures of housing"

Architect Bjarke Ingels has caused controversy by attempting to explain how his housing startup Nabr intends to revolutionise the housing sector. His remarks were made in an exclusive interview with Dezeen.

"I'm still lost on why this 'product' is superior to other homes?" said Rachel. "Electric cars gave an alternative to gasoline, Apple essentially gave us hand-held computers... I understand he wants to mass-produce buildings to bring down the costs, but what can I get from his product that I can't already get?"

JZ continued: "Thinking of apartments as products is the fricking problem, not the solution. Architecture, by definition, requires adaptation to climate, culture, etc. Globalising multi-family design is not the solution."

"If defining 'architecture as a consumer-facing product' is considered an innovation then what the heck was it until now?" asked Zea Newland.

Are readers missing the point? Join the discussion ›

UK government to force developers to meet £4 billion cladding costs

Reader thinks the UK government forcing developers to meet £4 billion cladding costs is "the right move"

In the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire, homebuilders in England have been instructed by the government to fund the replacement of unsafe cladding on mid-rise blocks. Commenters are divided.

"This is the right move," said Bobby Dazzler. "The story will go on, though, as the developers will now fight for the cladding company to pay the costs."

"I don't understand how this cladding was ever allowed anywhere?" continued Sim. "Who overruled the rules that banned this cladding and why? Why do cladding manufacturers still sell this product if it is so flammable? Doesn't the government have a responsibility here for not protecting people?"

Apsco Radiales agreed: "Seems both are guilty of stupidity for allowing combustible materials in multi-tenant residential buildings."

Should homebuilders have to pay? Join the discussion ›

Thomas Heatherwick unveils 1,000 Trees shopping centre in Shanghai

Commenter thinks 1,000 Trees shopping centre "represents the very worst of 1980s architecture"

Readers are still discussing British designer Thomas Heatherwick's plant-covered shopping centre in Shanghai, China, which attracted comments last month when the first images of it were released.

Heatherwick has since replied during an exclusive interview with Dezeen, saying "we all need places that trigger a response".

"It represents the very worst of 1980s architecture and shopping mall culture," said Alfred Hitchcock. "It's a dinosaur of a building and the trees gimmick doesn't really help."

"Interesting," continued Alexander. "But not beautiful in my honest opinion. Maybe when the trees have matured it could look better?"

Clunking Fist was more positive: "Whatever the haters say, it is zillions times better than the structures just across the river. So you could argue it has improved the area."

Are you a fan of the 1,000 Trees shopping 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 onour comments page.

The post Commenter says the architecture profession is "undervalued and underpaid" appeared first on Dezeen.

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"Criminals will love" BMW's colour-changing car says commenter

In this week's comments update, readers are debating BMW's updated electric iX SUV and discussing other top stories.

Car brand BMW has unveiled a version of its iX SUV that can change colour from black to white in order to suit the driver's mood.

Unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show, the concept car is wrapped in "digital paper" that is also used to form the screen of the Kindle e-reader.

"It will 100 per cent be in the next James Bond movie"

Commenters are torn. "100 per cent in the next James Bond movie," said Bobby Dazzler.

"Criminals will like this feature!" continued FokkovanderVeen.

"It's actually a really interesting development," replied Yourastar, "but I can't help but think that in this form it's a bit of a novelty. It won't be widely used in the industry due to multiple factors, ease of damage or repair, etc. Perhaps a missed opportunity for this tech."

Muckers 270 agreed: "Sounds like nothing was wasted on this fickle, high-end, social media-obsessed, fashion-conscious, consumer-focused product that will never see the light of day."

Are readers being harsh? Join the discussion ›

Venice to replace glass steps on Santiago Calatrava-designed bridge amid "almost daily" falls

Commenter defends slippery Ponte della Costituzione bridge saying "life is inherently dangerous"

Readers are discussing news that the city of Venice is set to replace the glass floor of Santiago Calatrava's Ponte della Costituzione bridge over the Grand Canal with stone due to the high numbers of pedestrians slipping and falling.

"How dare they slip over on this work of art," joked JB. "But while they are down they should humbly give thanks to visionary architects."

"Ironically, I heard the new stone pavers will require a protective coating of banana peels, eels, and that stuff that holds tomato seeds together," added Steve Hassler.

Michael was more serious: "Life is inherently dangerous. Personal responsibility and risk assessment based on physical ability is what makes people free. I am sure the majority of people walk across the bridge without incident. We are going bankrupt trying to make the world perfectly 'safe' for everyone. Not to mention killing beautiful and/or creative design."

Should the Ponte della Costituzione bridge be redesigned? Join the discussion ›

Apparata designs affordable housing development A House for Artists in London

Reader praises a "promising new generation of very interesting social housing projects in England"

Architecture studio Apparata has started conversations about social housing with its design for a community-oriented housing development in east London. A House for Artists was designed to provide low-cost housing and workspace for 12 artists and their families.

"Elegant and well proportioned," said Pavarreon. "It pertains to this promising new generation of very interesting social housing projects in England. Lucky tenants who live in this project, since they might be enjoying a certain quality of life."

"It's interesting that people like this kind of building," replied Cornelis Kater. "Yes, it seems to be well done regarding formal aspects. But why oh why do we have still these concrete facades? Why can't social housing have materials that will age with grace?

"It's pretty damn cool," concluded Hint of Brain. "Inhabit the space with potted plants, some kilim area rugs, strategically placed sculptures, and a wide array of original artwork on the walls, and the place will come to life."

What do you think of A House for Artists? Join the discussion ›

[](http://Postmodern architecture celebrated in illustrations by Adam Nathaniel Furman)Postmodern architecture celebrated in illustrations by Adam Nathaniel Furman

Commenter says "postmodernist architecture is the best thing that happened in the 20th century"

Readers are divided over designer Adam Nathaniel Furman's vividly coloured illustration series called Postmodern Icons, which celebrates buildings including Chicago's James R Thompson Center and London's Isle of Dogs Pumping Station (pictured).

"Postmodernist architecture is the best thing that happened in the 20th century," said Prbslv.

"I'm no fan of postmodernism," replied BillH11103, "but at least someone is celebrating it in art, albeit simple art. Better than what's happening with brutalism, which is just being destroyed like sandcastles in Brighton. No architecture style should ever be spurned or destroyed, even the ugliest. It's still architecture."

"Pastel-washing the horrors of postmodernism," continued Marc Sicard. "Hard pass."

Are you a fan of Furman's Postmodern Icons series? 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 onour comments page.

The post "Criminals will love" BMW's colour-changing car says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.

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Commenter calls Heatherwick Studio's 1,000 Trees development "sublime"

In this week's comments update, readers are analysing Heatherwick Studio's 1,000 Trees development and discussing other top stories.

The first section of the plant-covered 1,000 Trees development, designed by British designer Thomas Heatherwick's studio, has opened in Shanghai, China.

Designed for developer Tian An, the mixed-use development has been described as "Shanghai's Hanging Gardens of Babylon" and features up to 1,000 pillars, each with a tree planted on top.

"Like the trees were retrofitted onto a 1970s hotel"

Commenters are divided. "Sublime," said Don Bronkema.

FMB agreed: "Great building, and unique in its own right. This is one to stay. So much to discover and to wander around and through. I guess all the dissing architects will keep dissing, but average people and visitors to this beautiful site will just love it."

"What a conceptually moribund and fundamentally ugly project," disagreed Ralph Kent.

"Intense and clunky," concluded JZ. "Like the trees were retrofitted onto a 1970s hotel to Disneyfy the place."

Are readers being harsh? Join the discussion ›

Mario Cucinella Architects creates "serene and monolithic" church in Italian hill top town

Commenter says "it's unimaginable that somebody can be this creative"

Readers are worshipping the Mario Cucinella Architects-designed Santa Maria Goretti Church in the town of Mormanno in southern Italy. The building features a cross-shaped entrance.

"I honestly think it's unimaginable that somebody could be this creative," said Roelatmac. "Impressive, very beautiful."

Elvie Rubio agreed: "Wonderful building! Great architecture!"

"I would go out of my way, to view and experience this church," added Art Bray. "Modern is so hard to do. The interior, with the heavens above and the crucifix rising finish it off."

Are you delighted by Santa Maria Goretti Church? Join the discussion ›

Claywood by Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt is a wheelchair-friendly house in disguise

"Great designers find ways to create architecture out of any given challenge" says reader

Commenters are debating Claywood, a Hampshire house that British architecture studio Ayre Chamberlain Gaunthas designed for a client who became a wheelchair user after suffering a spinal cord injury.

"I am very happy that the client had the means to execute the perfect house for their circumstances, nicely done," said Puzzello. "Architecture should not be narrowly defined as buildings for typical able-bodied individuals. Great designers find ways to create architecture out of any given challenge."

Zea Newland was more cynical: "A brand-new sprawling modernist mansion with a lot of space is almost inherently wheelchair friendly, if I may say this from an able-bodied person's perspective."

"For me, this design just doesn't seem to reach that magical moment where the brief becomes more than the sum of its parts and truly architectural and inspiring," concluded Sim.

What do you think of Claywood? Join the discussion ›

Retractable screens shelter seafront apartment block in Australia by Koichi Takada Architects

Commenter calls apartment block "the prettiest thing on the Gold Coast"

Readers are discussing a mixed-use apartment block on Queensland's Gold Coast featuring retractable slatted wooden screens and thin balconies that reference the form of a pine cone. It was designed by Koichi Takada Architects.

"The prettiest thing on the Gold Coast," said Yourastar. "It should feature in their tourism ads."

Arthur Mamou-Mani was also impressed: "This architect is a breath of fresh air."

Heywood Flioyd was less keen though: "Watered-down ZHA."

Are you wowed by the building? Join the discussion ›

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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 onour comments page.

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Commenter calls Sky Pool "an environmental catastrophe"

In this week's comments update, readers are debating the heating costs of the controversial Sky Pool at the Embassy Gardens development in London and discussing other top stories.

Residents at the Embassy Gardens development in southwest London claim its Sky Pool is too cold to be used in winter, despite heating costs of £450 a day.

The transparent swimming pool, which is suspended 35 metres in the air between two buildings, should be closed during the colder months to save money and energy, according to residents.

"We are livid," said one Embassy Gardens leaseholder.

"They can use the pool as a high-altitude ice skating rink"

Commenters are divided. "This is an environmental catastrophe," said Kath Scott. "Why are we allowing things like this to be built in a climate emergency?"

Mr Sustainable agreed: "Shame on HAL for proposing such an irresponsible feature. Architects should know better and advise clients, even if it means saving on budget."

"I live there," replied Tom. "It is a development sold with an asset that has a service charge funding it. No one asked me to live there or to pay for it so I don't get why residents would complain. Go live elsewhere if you don't like it."

"They could use the pool as a high-altitude ice skating rink!" suggested Amaury Rafael Arroyo.

Should the Sky Pool be turned off during winter? Join the discussion ›

Balenciaga designs concrete Berlin store to reference the city's modernist architecture

Commenter thinks concrete Balenciaga store "looks like a city's sewer system"

Readers aren't sold on fashion brand Balenciaga's new Berlin store, which continues the company's Raw Architecture aesthetic and boasts monolithic concrete slabs and distressed surfaces.

"Looks like some large city's sewer system junction," said Apsco Radiales.

Muckers270 wasn't keen either: "Keyword equals 'distressed'. It is. I am."

"Architects are so in love with this concrete ideology that they don't see how depressing it is in reality," added Prbslv. "If this design reflects anything German, it is the interiors of Hitler's underground bunker. Modernism should be reserved for bunkers, sewage canals, prisons, and maybe hospitals."

What do you think of the store? Join the discussion ›

Pritzker Prize-winning architect Richard Rogers dies aged 88

Reader calls Richard Rogers a "wonderful, gracious man and great architect"

Commenters are mourning the loss of high-tech architecture pioneer Richard Rogers, who designed the Centre Pompidou and Lloyd's building. He passed away at his London home this week aged 88.

"Wonderful, gracious man and a great architect," said John Hix. "It was a pleasure to have known him. The design world will miss Sir Richard."

Wave Notation agreed: "How not to admire the work and character this giant gave and has shown in the last fifty years? Thank you sir, your light shines on."

"Such an incommensurate loss! Sir Richard has given us practical examples of his innovative ideas – combining high-tech materials and processes, modular and mass-produced elements, bringing industrial design and architecture together. All of this whilst being a humble, cheerful and very decent human being. Truly one of a kind," concluded Everaldo Amorim.

How will you remember Rogers? Join the discussion ›

McDonald's opens "UK's first net-zero restaurant"

Commenter calls McDonald's first net-zero carbon restaurant "lipstick on a pig"

Readers aren't convinced by claims that McDonald's has opened the UK's first net-zero carbon restaurant building. The restaurant was built using natural or recycled materials and powered by a combination of wind turbines and solar panels.

"Add as many windmills and solar panels as you wish," said JayCee. "The beef and fast-food industries are not, and never will be, sustainable. This is lipstick on a pig. Pun intended."

Xavier Smales agreed: "A 'net-zero' restaurant selling intensively farmed meat, that you have to drive to. Another shining example of holistic sustainability."

"With an eventual plant-based menu, will the ground coffee actually be made from ground?" asked Alan Sims.

Are readers being cynical? Join the discussion ›

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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 onour comments page.

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An EPC is "an unreliable means of representing building performance" says commenter

In this week's comments update, readers are talking about the energy performance of the longlisted projects for the RIBA House of the Year 2021 and discussing other top stories.

According to research by architecture studio Hawkes Architecture, only one of the 20 projects longlisted for the RIBA House of the Year 2021 achieved an A-rated energy performance certificate.

Nine of the projects received a B-rated energy performance certificate (EPC), while the remaining projects were C, D and E-rated.

An EPC is a measure of the overall efficiency of a home, for which the best rating is A and the worst is E.

"It should win an award for the house of yesterday"

Commenters are torn. "The response from one of the judges that it is 'unfair to judge designs conceived more than a decade ago by today's expectations' just makes you think it should win an award for the 'house of yesterday' not 2021," said Leon Crascall.

Jhardman disagreed: "Total rubbish to only look at EPC ratings on projects such a Redhill Barn and Water Tower and call them unsustainable. They are cleverly reusing structures and existing materials."

"The winning project does reuse an existing building when it could have been demolished and completely replaced," added Alfred Hitchcock. "So that's a sustainable method to start with."

"The EPC is a lightweight statutory document that is commonly generated with design data, not as-built test results," concluded Richard Porteous. "It is an unreliable means of representing building performance. That said, Richard Hawkes is right to push for greater recognition of sustainable construction and energy-efficiency amongst the architectural community."

Should EPC ratings matter? Join the discussion ›

Neri Oxman and Bill Ackman told to alter Norman Foster design for their New York penthouse

Commenter "would welcome the opportunity to have a Norman Foster crown" on their building

Readers are divided over whether architect Neri Oxman and her husband Bill Ackman's plans for a glass penthouse on a 1920s building in New York should be approved. The couple was told to modify the plans, originally drawn up by Norman Foster.

"Let them build it," said Curt Llewellyn. "Especially when you see what passes for architecture in NYC these days."

Puzzello agreed: "I would welcome the opportunity to have a Norman Foster crown on my building and increase my property value."

"It's not a good design," replied Pedestrian. "It's so boring and derivative. It looks like a visitor's center for a national park. It does not belong on top of an iconic landmark in NYC. Just because his name is Norman Foster doesn't make it good architecture."

Should the glass penthouse be approved? Join the discussion ›

"It's time to reconsider the whole colour of the year carnival"

Reader suggests Pantone opens its colour of the year to "popular vote"

Interiors thought-leader Michelle Ogundehin has sparked debate by saying that "Pantone has once again failed to use its selection of color of the year to talk meaningfully about how colour reflects moments."

"Like we need more negativity," said Gabriella Kristina. "Beautiful color. Period."

"Maybe Pantone should open it up to popular vote to choose the next array of colours," suggested Yourastar.

"I find it funny that this color is basically the default accent color of Microsoft Teams – especially in dark mode," concluded Skye. "Maybe the Pantone designers subconsciously picked the color based on something they stare at eight hours a day."

What do you think of Very Peri, Pantone's colour of the year? Join the discussion ›

Alison Brooks' "intriguing and distinguished" farmhouse extension named UK's best new home

Commenter calls RIBA House of the Year award winner "controversial"

Readers are discussing the winner of the RIBA House of the Year award, which was designed by Alison Brooks Architects. House on the Hill in Gloucestershire consists of a Georgian farmhouse and an art-filled black extension.

"This is a controversial project," said Zmicier Saviel'eŭ. "But when a country has a lot of heritage, such experiments are possible."

"I think her work is very good," added Sim, "but I don't agree that this is the best new home. This house seems to suffer from a lack of limits – limits in the budget, limits in required space, limits in functions. It results in a lot of space that feels meaningless."

Fran~ki~gio was more positive: "Alison Brooks' design approach is always both clever and creative, yet subtle. I do love all its residential and housing schemes, but this goes far beyond combining poetic and lifestyle. Bravo."

Should House on the Hill have won? Join the discussion ›

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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 onour comments page.

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Commenter suggests Notre-Dame cathedral is "turned into a discotheque"

In this week's comments update, readers are debating a proposal to give Notre-Dame a tourist-friendly makeover and discussing other top stories.

Plans to restore Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris have emerged, including replacing confessional boxes, altars and classical sculptures with modern art murals.

According to the Daily Telegraph, new light and sound effects designed to create "emotional spaces" could also be added, alongside a "discovery trail" through themed chapels, including one with a strong environmental focus.

Quotes from the Bible would also be projected onto chapel walls in various languages, including Mandarin.

"The cathedral is a World Heritage Monument"

Commenters have had a mixed response. "Can it turn into a discotheque at night?" asked Limelight USA.

Pavarreon was less keen: "The cathedral is a World Heritage Monument. It is also a religious institutionalised structure dedicated to cult and worship – certainly not a tourist's facility. Would we accept St Paul's Cathedral in London, St Peter's Basilica in Rome or La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to become circuses? Shame on them."

Chris D replied: "Are the freestanding art pieces and sound and light effects all removable? Yes. Will the actual cathedral fabric be restored as it was? Yes. Problem? No."

"Thanks for putting this all in perspective," concluded Frank. "I bet zero per cent of the people screaming about this know that the golden cross at the high altar of Notre Dame was designed, constructed, and installed in the 1990s."

How do you feel? Join the discussion ›

"World's first" unisex condom created by Wondaleaf

Commenter claims creator of unisex condom "forgot that sex is about sexiness"

Readers aren't convinced by Malaysian gynecologist John Tang's design for a condom that can be worn by both males and females during sex.

"Someone forgot that sex is also about sexiness," said Andrew. "It is not just a binary reproduction or non-reproduction issue. Wrapping a thin plastic bag around your reproductive organs doesn't look very appealing."

"Would be a good product to stop the spread of STDs," replied Ken Steffes. "That should be the focus of new products like this, not the act of having sex."

"Should be called the Innie Outie," concluded Design Junkie.

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Stadium in giant tent completes ahead of World Cup in Qatar

Reader says FIFA 2022 World Cup stadium's analogy "doesn't really hold up"

Commenters are debating Dar Al-Handasah's 60,000-seat Al Bayt Stadium in the Qatari city of Al Khor. The tent-like structure was created for the 2022 World Cup and named after the historic bayt al sha'ar tents that were used by nomadic people.

"Shame the tent shape is not visible internally," said Steve Leo.

Alfred Hitchcock disagreed: "The tent analogy doesn't really hold up when you see that it needs a motorway for access and it's surrounded in concrete and a sea of parking."

"Modernist dogma demands the outside form be reflected on the inside, demands form be abstract and not representational, and demands dissenters be ridiculed," replied JB. "The vast majority don't care and will simply recognise this form as culturally relevant and pleasing to look at."

Are you keen on the Al Bayt Stadium? Join the discussion ›

ODDO Architects builds TH House on tiny infill plot in Hanoi

Commenter says "projects like this are what architecture is about"

Readers are wowed by Vietnamese studio ODDO Architects' design for a five-storey family home in Hanoi. The plot measures just four metres wide and six metres deep.

"Yet more Vietnamese magic," said Think. "There must be something in the water."

Marius agreed: "Not the first good project from ODDO Architects. Young practice with accomplishments. A fine house, clever execution, commendable."

"Projects like this are what architecture is about for me," concluded Zea Newland. "This is yet another exciting structure from Vietnam. I love the focus on functionality – and boy what an interesting site to build on."

What do you think of TH House? Join the discussion ›

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Commenter questions why Burberry designed "a building that could destroy thousands of birds"

In this week's comments update, readers are irritated by Burberry's design for a reflective pop-up store in South Korea and discussing other top stories.

British fashion brand Burberry has installed a pop-up store that reflects a surrounding mountain range on Jeju Island, South Korea, for its latest outerwear clothing collection.

The Imagined Landscapes Jeju installation is made from plywood, timber and a reflective polycarbonate mirror material.

"Out of touch in pretty much every way possible"

Commenters are annoyed. "Oh, the poor birds!" said Stefanos S. "Why are architects allowed to design reflective buildings? The design is great but the reflecting material is plain wrong."

Apsco Radiales agreed: "I can even get over the shape, the design, the location, but why in God's name are you building such a highly reflective building that will destroy thousands of birds?"

"Tomorrow's trash today!" continued Alexis Harrison. "Hopefully, South Korea has plenty of landfill space for all that non-circular polycarbonate and plywood once this gets discarded after a pitifully short life pleasuring a select few."

"Out of touch in pretty much every way possible," concluded Steve Leo.

Dezeen has asked Burberry if the building poses a risk for birds but hasn't yet had a response.

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Demountable stadium built with shipping containers reaches completion in Qatar

Commenter says "if buildings could virtue-signal," shipping container stadium "would be a role model"

Readers are debating a demountable stadium built with shipping containers, which is nearing completion in Qatar ahead of the FIFA 2022 World Cup.

"If this building actually gets disassembled and built somewhere else, it will be the architecture story of the decade," said Puzzello.

"From what I can see the stadium is not 'built with shipping containers,'" replied Walter Astor. "The stadium is built with steel and concrete and then some repurposed shipping containers were tacked on to allow a feeble claim to sustainability. If buildings could virtue-signal, this would be a role model."

Garlic agreed: "In what way is this sustainable? A few tokenistic shipping containers plonked on for aesthetics doesn't make it sustainable. And what happens to those after the World Cup?"

Is Stadium 974 a clever idea? Join the discussion ›

Ten projects by Virgil Abloh that demonstrate his versatility as a designer

Readers believe Virgil Abloh "showed the world everything is possible"

Commenters, designers and creatives have paid their respects to Virgil Abloh following his death from cancer this week. We also rounded up 10 projects that illustrate the designer's boundary-pushing approach.

"Sad day," said Nir. "Rest in peace icon!"

"The legacy you left behind will always be remembered," added Lek. "You've shown the world everything is possible."

Haokip concluded: "Never a fan of his work, but sad that he passed away so young. God bless his family."

What was your most memorable project by Abloh? Join the discussion ›

Zinc-clad hikers' cabin perches on a cliff edge in the Dolomites

Commenter calls hikers' cabin "superb in all aspects"

Readers are discussing a small cabin that Demogo has perched on the dramatic Marmarole mountain range in Northern Italy's Dolomites. It is meant as a refuge for hikers.

"This project is superb in all aspects," said Sheets. "Beautifully scaled, shaped, and sited – conscientiously and responsibly designed, expertly executed."

"Mixed feelings about this being an emergency shelter," continued JZ. "The last thing one probably requires is being perched in a wind-rattled box that appears to be intent on funneling off the edge of the mountain."

DY disagreed: "I do a tonne of multi-day mountaineering and in my opinion, this is fit for purpose. Beautifully designed and well located for visibility purposes. If you're worried about 'funneling off the edge' after a five-hour hike in steep terrain, then you shouldn't be up that high in the first place."

What do you think of the cabin? Join the discussion ›

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"It's the perfect site for a glass Toblerone piece of Swissness" says commenter

In this week's comments update, readers are debating Herzog & de Meuron's Tour Triangle, which is set to be built in Paris, and discussing other top stories.

The Tour Triangle skyscraper is finally set to begin construction in Paris after 15 years in the making, amid a last-ditch attempt to stop it by the building's critics.

Initial building works on the 180-metre building are now expected to start by the end of the year and complete in 2026 – 12 years later than initially planned.

"To me, it has no meaning other than a Dorito"

Readers are not convinced by the building, which would be the largest skyscraper to appear on central Paris' skyline since 1973.

"Let's hope Parisians will wake up screaming as Londoners did with the Tulip nightmare after it was given a go," said Marius.

"This site is right next to the Peripherique in an industrial park with a cheesy mini-Epcot center style theatre to boot," commented Archibro. "It's the perfect site for a glass Toblerone piece of Swissness."

Alex is not impressed: "As a Parisian, what do triangles have to do with Paris? To me, it has no meaning other than a Dorito."

Is the Tour Triangle a good or bad addition to the Paris skyline? Join the discussion ›

Petition launched to stop construction of controversial Munger Hall dormitory

Reader believes Munger Hall "will become the butt of every architectural joke"

The launch of a petition to prevent the construction of the controversial mostly-windowless Munger Hall dormitory got readers debating again.

"Shame on the UC Santa Barbara Dean for allowing such brutalism on their campus," said Pierre Maregiano. "And for what purpose? To allow more students, more fees?"

"A return to cave dwelling, but without the fresh air," added Paul Barnfather.

Idracula is not impressed by the dormitory either: "This windowless hive of a structure will become the butt of every architectural joke, it has already begun."

Do you think the petition will stop construction? Join the discussion ›

Foster + Partners nestles Le Dôme winery in French vineyards

"​​The saucer has landed"

Readers have mixed feelings about a low-lying winery that Foster + Partners has completed for French wine producer Le Dôme.

"I think the exterior modesty and qualities of this project are wonderful, entirely appropriate to the context," said Sheets. "This is one of the better, more congruent, recent Foster projects, in my opinion."

Hello Peril agrees: "It is not trying to pretend it is part of the landscape, it is not trying to replicate its neighbours, but it makes subtle references to them and sits in harmony with them. Without being overtly glitzy it looks like the perfect mood to enjoy a glass."

"The saucer has landed," said Apsco Radiales. "We report no intelligent life on this planet, but they do have excellent wine."

Would you enjoy a glass of wine at this winery? Join the discussion ›

Iragüen Viñuela Arquitectos completes Chilean ski cabin atop reused foundations

Chilean ski cabin is "gorgeous" and "good-looking" commenters say

Readers are impressed with this ski cabin in Chile by Viñuela Arquitectos.

"Yes, it is a good-looking structure," said Ken Steffes. "Structures built out of natural wood materials are usually always very warm and inviting," he added.

"Beautiful work," agreed Rowan. "The exterior wood cladding complements the surrounding forest wonderfully."

"Gorgeous project, through and through," added JZ.

What do you think about this holiday home? Join the discussion ›

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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.

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