hoop+stick

http://www.bdonline.co.uk/story.asp?sectioncode=426&storycode=3124669&c=1&encCode=0000000001841ac5

This article depresses me on many levels.
One: because I agree with it completely. Too many architects are develping "eco-bling" to stick to their buildings instead of doing something basic and significant. Its more what looks "cool" or "sexy" first with pv attached to it to make it "green" than what it actually efficient.
Two: Because I feel that dubai is rather ineffiecient. i mean seriously... who builds these "american" towers in the desert...
Three: Because I hate the fact people still havn't taken notice of the fact that Mayne's buildings are very very efficient (Leed platinum for Caltran?). Zaha should bow her head in shame. Mayne backs his stuff up and is still modest about his "starchitect" status. He deserves what he has and is very unpretentious about it.
Four: SOM wasn't selected for the mile high tower? seriously? who the heck has better experience, resources, and outside connections to do that.... They were already working on it and had it worked out.... come on..... Could be so much prettier than that ugly developer render.

Overally. Fuck Dubai. Those guys don't know shit

Also, on another note. if anyone has that Discovery Channel thing "Impossible City" recorded, let me know. Bob has a rendering in that video from his work at Reiser+Umemoto