Architects Criticize WTC Design Process

Architects criticize the intense publicity and "spectacle" surrounding the design proposals for Ground Zero.

1 minute read

January 2, 2003, 5:00 AM PST

By Abhijeet Chavan @http://twitter.com/legalaidtech

"The popular image of the architect as a creative genius whipping up great designs on a cocktail napkin is at odds with the reality. More often, architects say, great design is the result of constant, sometimes painful give-and-take between the architect and the client... By contrast, the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation announced that its design priorities for the site would be determined 'by conducting the most comprehensive public outreach campaign ever undertaken.'...what may be a great spectacle [is] no way to select a design... The attention and its intensity are mixed blessings, said some architects, who worried that some of the more implausible designs might be taken literally, leaving the entire profession open to ridicule and condemnation."

Thanks to Abhijeet Chavan

Read the full story: Architects Criticize Ground Zero Publicity

Wednesday, January 1, 2003 in The New York Times

Architecture New York

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

Get top-rated, practical training for planners

Start Learning

Advertise with us

FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?

After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.