Dezeen Magazine

Kalashnikov unveils prototype electric car to "keep up" with Tesla

"Who are they marketing it to, the Flintstones?"

In this week's comments update, readers think that a concept electric car designed by Russian defence manufacturer Kalashnikov already looks outdated.

Back to the future: readers have been mocking a concept electric car that has been unveiled by Russian defence manufacturer Kalashnikov, best known for its AK-47 assault rifle.

"Welcome to the past," commented Luis Miguel in reference to the car's retro-look.

In agreement, Gregor asked: "Who are they marketing it to, the Flintstones?"

Some readers, including Jar Jar Drinks, were so unimpressed with the design that they struggled to take it seriously: "Looks like a toddler's interpretation of what a car looks like."

"I almost expected to see a hamster in the driver's seat," joked Abruce.

This reader had a more loaded question to ask:

What do you think of the electric car? Join the discussion ›


Diversity in CGIs

Whitewashing: Margaret Ravenscroft argued that creating CGIs that don't reflect the social demographic of the area is inexcusable, leaving readers divided.

"I would not have noticed this if it were not pointed out in such a thoughtful, and intelligent way," said a complimentary Lisa Roth Scrabeck.

Ella agreed: "A step closer to creating a more diverse industry. A great article and we need more writers like this to push forward change."

Others though, including CVXXX, did not share the sentiment: "This is a waste of time, money, and misses the point of design."

Frank Feagan added: "Who is going (and has time) to determine the acceptable percentile number of blondes, skinheads, partially bald, paraplegics, handicapped using wheelchairs, persons requiring companion dogs, protestant ministers, policemen, police women, street cleaners etc.?"

One reader had different reasons for their image choices:

Do you think that CGIs should be more diverse? Join the discussion ›


Bangkok airport terminal by DBALP Consortium

Form of flattery: Duangrit Bunnag was accused of copying Kengo Kuma's work after winning a competition to design a new terminal for an airport in Bangkok, leaving readers irritated.

"Bunnag is a great architect who is already well renowned in Asia, he has got no need to plagiarise," argued a disgruntled PG.

Jay C. White Cloud asked: "Does Kuma feel plagiarised? If so, how could he? His work came after many others who have employed very similar design styles way before he did."

Kamil Kibar added: "What is being posed here is in fact re-interpretations of a traditional structure emanated from the characteristics of wood."

"Plagiarism isn't a word to be tossed around lightly. Evidence is needed," concluded Chris Becket.

One reader was more concerned about the project's finish:

Plagiarism or inspiration? Join the discussion ›


Tnoie by Katsutoshi Sasaki

Safety first: Japanese architect Katsutoshi Sasaki has built himself an open-plan, 102-square-metre family home, but readers were concerned about the safety of the children living in the home.

"Japanese houses like this are wonderful. They are like testing grounds on how rigorously an idea can be adhered to. It is a very bold little house," argued Arc.

Dan disagreed, describing the tiny space as "Claustrophobic".

"I love minimal but this is an example of horrible design. Bad lighting, bad acoustics, unfriendly for living or office, too dangerous for children or older people," elaborated Alojzy Babel.

Fabian Z was also concerned about safety: "I'm not a 'but what about the children' sort of guy, but this one is seriously too dangerous, even a clumsy adult called fall badly and break their neck easily."

This reader had one request:

What do you think of the family home? Join the discussion ›