A daily blog on architecture in Chicago, and other topics cultural, political and mineral.
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Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Is it just me, or does this perspective leave you feeling a bit queasy?
My office is in the building right behind that new tower, and yes, the design is indeed quite disorienting. Though the tower will add absolutely nothing to Chicago's architectural legacy, I'm just relieved they didn't tear down the wonderful 19th century Washington Block building in the foreground in favor of, say, a unnecessary public plaza whose sole purpose is to boost the property value of the tower. (Looking at you, Buck.)
It does make me feel queasy. The building design is interesting (or weird), but I think the vertigo comes from using a camera lens that makes straight lines curved. I believe the cantilever is possible, but I doubt that the building actually leans to the right like that.
If it does, then it really deserves a prize. Something of a cross between Mies and Hieronymous Bosch.
215 West Washington and environs, by Bob Johnson.
My office is in the building right behind that new tower, and yes, the design is indeed quite disorienting. Though the tower will add absolutely nothing to Chicago's architectural legacy, I'm just relieved they didn't tear down the wonderful 19th century Washington Block building in the foreground in favor of, say, a unnecessary public plaza whose sole purpose is to boost the property value of the tower. (Looking at you, Buck.)
ReplyDeleteIt does make me feel queasy. The building design is interesting (or weird), but I think the vertigo comes from using a camera lens that makes straight lines curved. I believe the cantilever is possible, but I doubt that the building actually leans to the right like that.
ReplyDeleteIf it does, then it really deserves a prize. Something of a cross between Mies and Hieronymous Bosch.
Yikes, that garage is atrocious.
ReplyDeleteSo many possibilities, so little talent.
ReplyDeleteHow do architects keep getting paid for work this hideous?
ReplyDelete