Comments update: readers weighed into the ongoing debate about whether non-architects should design buildings after Marcel Wanders described the discussion as the "f*cking opposite" of open-minded creativity. Read on for more on this and explore our comments page to keep up to date with the latest discussions.
Designers as architects: Wanders is the latest designer to work on a building project – revealing plans for glass-walled prefabricated houses – but dismissed the argument as a waste of time. Commenters had mixed reactions.
"Rubbish is the type of product that most people design without any formal training," argued regular contributor Spadestick. "All designers, whether architects or industrial designers, need some form of formal training to reach a certain qualitative level of substance."
Others sided with the Dutch designer. "If famous designers get taken on to lend some 'brand' weight to a development, [it is] fine," replied a guest commenter. "How do they deliver a sensible building that complies with code, cost and sustainability requirements? They employ architects." Read the comments on this story »
SpongeBob ToxicPants: angry readers criticised a bikini designed to absorb pollution from the sea this week.
"Please don't ask women to wear it and expose their bodies to hazardous chemicals," said one concerned commenter, who went on to suggest it could cause serious health problems.
"Where are the men's trunks made out of this filter fabric?" asked Chad Sutter, while James labelled the pollutant-absorbing bikini as "attention-grabbing and flawed."
However, some commenters foresaw potential uses for the sponge-like material that absorbs oils while repelling water. "Can we extend the application of the material to boats?" wrote Jana. Read the comments on this story »
Wet blanket: a poncho designed to protect the wearer and their bicycle from the rain divided opinion after some commenters questioned its functionality.
"Just make sure your bike has fenders, or all that water flipping off the tires will be caught under the tent and distributed to your butt crack and groin," observed regular commenter Chad Sutter. "Whatever happened to a simple rain suit that goes over the clothes?"
Others loved the waterproof garment's minimal design and colour, a compliment that was immediately rebuffed by one guest commenter who said the poncho should've been made in a high-visibility material. Read the comments on this story »