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2. Starchitect crimes
2.1_Confined to icons
The criticism of architectural icons neither begins with me nor do I wish it to be the sole subject of discussion; however, it is the stem of many issues with starchitects, for which it must be addressed at the forefront.
It is true that architecture, for the majority of times, begins with visuals. It is an art that is “separate from all the other arts”[5]. Much like art, architecture is the culmination of human creativity, encompassing generations of movements, discourse and progression. Where it differs, is that it’s also a necessity, one that establishes a deep connection with its users, requiring a fundamental understanding of locality, history, habits, culture, and much more.
[5] SHIRVANI, HAMID, “Post, Past, or Post-Past, the commodification of architecture”, Current Volume: Number 8 (1999) Combined Issue 8-9 Spring/Autumn
https://commons.library.stonybrook.edu/differentia/?utm_source=commons.library.stonybrook.edu%2Fdifferentia%2Fvol8%2Fiss1%2F9&utm_medium=PDF&utm_campaign=PDFCoverPages
The problem is, as mentioned earlier, attempting to create and present architecture as visuals for visuals’ sake, with examples including but not limited to the images above: Binhai Library by MVRDV.
In the pursuit for meanings of icons, meanings of living is neglected, exposing the fundamental disconnection between the elite architects and everyday users. The tendency to create new buzzwords is a prime example for oversimplifying the intricacy and nuance of the built environment, it is an endless string of concept rebranding that are closer to marketing ploys than new ideas.
"Architecture is only at its best when the value of service overrides the value of looks - that is, evaluated by its intrinsic values, not first impressions."
2.2_The Calatrava extravaganza
Budget had always been a fight to balance between what can be done and what should be done. This balance is easily offset when starchitects abuse their influence and severely inflate the cost of buildings; it is a practice that should only be mildly tolerable in private sectors and never in the public realm.
The PATH Station by Calatrava, when completed in 2016, inflated the budget from $2.2b to $4.0b, while only amassing a mere 20% passenger ridership compared to other major stations. It is described as a “symbol of excess”[6], an art piece so disconnected from its value - it is a true travesty that people will suffer for the cost.
[6] Rubinstein, Dana. "Port Authority declines to celebrate Calatrava-designed transportation hub". Capital New York. Albany, N.Y. February 26, 2016.
http://www.capitalnewyork.com/article/albany/2016/02/8591588/port-authority-declines-celebrate-calatrava-designed-transportation-h
"The outrageous cost of spectacle reflects a stark ineptitude in recognising architecture as a symbol of service, but rather a gimmick of luxury."
2.3_(Lack of) social responsibility
Whether we like it or not, architects who have garnered enough followers are comparable to celebrities, whose words and designed works carry weight, and will inevitably have social, economic and cultural impacts. It is disheartening to see some of the most influential figures in the industry conducting questionable, if not straight up morally reprehensible practices. They MUST be held accountable for their actions.
It is an unethical state of mind to disassociate oneself from their social responsibilities, especially for those on the top of pyramids. Too long have architects practiced in a bubble while being apathetic to social conditions that could be improved. Zaha Hadid’s response to the 37 construction worker deaths related to her stadium in Qatar was cold and unsympathetic; while her firm may not suffer legal consequences, her indifference sends a dangerous message to architects everywhere.
Providing adequate compensation for one’s work should be a minimum requirement, yet the ugly practice of unpaid internship, or overworking without pay is a common occurrence even at the most prestigious firms across the world. These firms leveraging the starchitect’s reputation to exploit entry-level workers are deserving of condemnation.
"It is unsettling to see those in power seeking to propagate unethical customs instead of reforming them."
go home, dream's over.
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