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September 12, 2009
Architecture Review - Atlantic Yards
DE.SIGN
Blog author Anarchitect points out that the New York Times' architecture critic, Nicholas Ouroussoff, has a narrow focus that can hinder a greater understanding of the field of architecture as well as the proposed Atlantic Yards project.
New Design for Atlantic Yards Project Restores a Bit of the Old - NYTimes.com I am not greatly impressed with the flip-flopping design proposals for the Atlantic Yards site. However, I am also equally unimpressed by NY Times' lopsided critiques. Is NYT into marketing architects or good architecture and urban design? Mr. Ouroussoff sounds concerned and terrified (or Gehryfied?!) while reviewing the revised plans for the project by SHoP Architects....
It is tragic when architectural critics sing praises of architects rather than issues concerning architecture and urban design... There are many unanswered questions about the proposals for this site including absence of a plan - infrastructure planning and who is paying for it along with other costs that the taxpayers are presumed to bear..... In these times of Less rather than more, a critique of Excess is more we look forward to when evaluating large-scale architectural projects, not just iconic branding. Good is difficult to define however, accepted norms for what is considered to be a "high standard" remains indubitably questionable. NYT readers would be better served if Mr Ouroussoff focused more on the larger issues facing the profession of architecture and its responsibility towards shared goals; and writing a critique on architecture of the "sameness" that defines much of contemporary architecture including the work of Gehry's office rather than vilify other architects.
Posted by steve at September 12, 2009 5:54 AM