In this week's comments update, readers think Sebastian Errazuriz's claims that architects will be replaced by AI are unfounded.
Artificial claims: readers disagree with designer Sebastian Errazuriz who made the controversial claim that ninety per cent of architects will lose their jobs as artificial intelligence takes over the design process.
"Everybody just calm down," said Steve Hassler. "Designers will still have to set all the parameters and make sure all criteria are met. This should be a useful tool to help streamline the process and allow the exploration of many more variations toward the best ultimate design. We're not going anywhere. If anything, this will be empowering."
Graeme Doctor agreed: "An app may be able to 'design' a building but the architect’s job is to deliver that building too – I don’t foresee an app being able to do that anytime soon. We were told a century ago that the home of the future would roll off a production line like a car but that never came to pass."
"Call me when that app can deal with client feedback like 'yeah I like but not so sure' or 'mmm I don't know if I love it if I am completely honest' or 'I love it but can you just change this, and that, and yeah all that...'" continued Donacio Cejas Acosta.
"The only architects that are doomed are the ones that won't adapt," concluded Zane Gray.
This commenter noticed a flaw in the AI-designed plan:
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Late to the party: commenters are divided over news that architect Jean Nouvel is counter-suing the Philharmonie de Paris after he was fined €170.6 million when the concert hall opened late and over budget.
"There's a narrative explaining how they got to this point. Nouvel has delivered a large number of high profile projects worldwide, this is the first story like this to be associated with one of his buildings. I think we should give him the benefit of the doubt," said Heywood Floyd.
Chris agreed: "I very much doubt this is Jean Nouvel's fault. As a very experimental building, the client knew very well what they were getting into. Blaming the architect and not the greedy developer – and I suspect overpaid contractors – is probably the fault here."
"A prime example why the world is losing trust in architects, two years late and three times over budget is completely unacceptable," said Jay in disagreement. "I’m sure many of the problems were the result of the French government and possibly beyond the reach of Nouvel, however, it is inexcusable to be that late and that over budget."
Robert Cassway was for Nouvel being punished: "You design a building that complicated, you're asking for trouble."
As was this reader:
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Pigs in the sky: a London high-rise designed by Foggo Associates is being mocked after gaining the nickname Can of Ham – a result of its distinctive shape.
"I saw this building last week and assumed it must have been teleported from the 1980s," said Alfred Hitchcock. "I suppose it's not that bad though, considering it's just a small part of the architectural freak show which the City of London has become over the last 15 years."
"Why are London towers so awkward?" asked Rd in agreement. "Are they all trying to be contextual?"
Catherine Hammond had a theory: "Gherkin, Ham in a can... Architecture influenced by renowned British cuisine?"
Myrtle thought the building resembles something else: "Inflated air-raid shelter anybody? It looks just as dated."
One reader was feeling punny:
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Wrong move: falling visitor numbers at London's Design Museum are the result of the institute's new location, according to readers. The museum was left with a deficit of £1.2 million earlier this year.
"In comparison to the old place near London Bridge, the new building is something of a void, it lacks personality," said Mr Walnut Grey.
Petros felt similarly: "It all started with the museum's move to its new premises. From a somehow modest building in a convenient location to a cold building with an enormous 'Instagrammable' lobby and a relatively small free permanent collection."
"I'd argue the location is not ideal," continued KH. "It's a trek from East/North London where I imagine a lot of their potential audience lives and works."
"It's all quite sad to be honest," lamented Sam. "The old building was understated yet has a warmth and a presence that communicated design from the UK, it was a place where designers not architects felt at home. The new premise is all about architecture at the expense of design."
This reader was also frustrated by the move:
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