In this week’s comments update, readers are discussing a curved concrete church in Albania completed by architecture practice Arkpro Studio.
Topped with a lead-shaped roof, the Catholic church was designed as a landmark for the northern village of Narac.
“This is what music without harmony sounds like – just noise”
“Behold, a communist era concrete military bunker saw the light, rose and transformed into a catholic church,” wrote NikK.
Brian Anthony called it “an interesting little church”, while Chuck observed “looks pretty elegantly detailed to me.”
On the fence was Design Junkie, who put forward “I like the timber beams and the ark-like roof” before countering “however, the concrete walls and roof don’t work together – visually they feel out of sync.”
Less keen was Miles Teg, who scorned “this is what music without harmony sounds like – just noise.”
Harmonious or out of sync? Join the discussion ›
“The details are what really bring the design to completion for me”
Another story dividing opinion this week was about a Norwegian woodland cabin with large circular windows, which was designed by local architect Quentin Desfarges.
“Classic shape ruined a bit by the round window,” decided Apsco Radiales.
Tom Roberts also wasn’t keen, calling the cabin “another building in a boring pre-determined form.”
However, other readers were quick to defend the design. Michael Wigle suggested “the details are what really bring the design to completion for me,” before commending the “truly brilliant design work for something as simple as a cabin.”
“Drop-dead gorgeous,” concurred Don Bronkema while Marius called it “elegantly executed Nordic rationale – I could sit by the stove with a big glass of gløgg, accepting the window that has no sill to put my drink on.”
Boring or drop-dead gorgeous? Join the discussion ›
“Brooks + Scarpa remains a refreshing voice”
Also stirring up discussion was an angular black metal-clad house in North Carolina featuring roofs with exaggerated gables, designed by California studio Brooks + Scarpa to merge modern and traditional elements.
“What is this infatuation with black in nature?” asked Bigbull43, complaining that “it occurs all over the place in projects.”
Jb also took issue with the colour palette, suggesting that “while it’s commendable they’ve made the interior aesthetic distinct from the exterior, it’s negated by the weak choice of on-trend black and white.”
For commenter Al, the “horrible circulation” was the problem. They questioned “walk through the guest bedroom to access the master bedroom? Really?”.
On the other side of the coin, Project Meanings argued that “Brooks + Scarpa remains a refreshing voice.”
What do you reckon? Join the discussion ›
Comments update
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