In this week's comments update, readers are discussing projects by 2023's Pritzker Architecture Prize winner and debating the need to reduce mass-timber structures' raw-material use.
To celebrate David Chipperfield winning the 2023Â Pritzker Architecture Prize, we rounded up 15 key projects by the British architect and readers debated the merits of his more than four-decades output.
"Chipperfield's buildings don't try to overshadow the purpose they have been created for"
Lorenzo Corti commented that "he should have won it long ago as his body of work is so vast and coherent and he has influenced, globally, lots of architects during his career".
"I appreciate how Chipperfield's buildings don't try to overshadow the purpose they have been created for and still manage to be more than just pragmatic," said Zea Newland.
DPatrick agreed with others, saying "I find his work very calming, but not dull. A nice place to rest your eyes. I'd love to visit all of them."
But Tom Roberts thought Chipperfield "is not of the caliber of previous winners".
What do you think? Join the discussion ›
"Inspiring what can be done with a Victorian terrace"
Pashenko Works revamped and extended a Victorian terrace in Camberwell, south London, using exposed blockwork and corrugated steel to bring an industrial feel to the project and more than doubling its existing floor area.
Commenters were effusive in their praise.
AlfredHitchcock was taken with the top-lit, double-height volume above the sitting area, calling it "clever and delightful".
"Inspiring to see what can be done with a typical Victorian terrace," commented Chris. "Lovely crisp detailing as well," they continued.
Meanwhile, JP loved "the wildflower meadow in a city garden".
Lies Vde liked the "combination of raw and refined materials".
"If you like the industrial feel, leave it exposed – but a future owner can always fur it out a wee bit," commented JZ.
Do you like the exposed blockwork and industrial feel of this renovation? Join the discussion ›
"Men don't really place themselves in the shoes of women"
In an opinion piece for International Women's Day, Arup's Sara Candiracci reflected on how cities are still overwhelmingly designed for men – and how to change that. Readers joined the debate.
DutchDesigner_N said "some men are put off by the word 'inclusive' alone, but it simply means being considerate of your fellow human".
"As a man you don't really place yourself in the shoes of women and how much more dangerous a situation can be for them," reflected Rogelio Rodriguez.
Shioka thinks "gender equality is poor" and Fluffy Thoughts "would love to see more inclusively-designed spaces".
How do you think cities can be designed best for everyone? Join the discussion ›
"Wood is only renewable if we replant"
Commenters discussed a piece Maximilian Pramreiter wrote for Dezeen's Timber Revolution arguing the importance of reducing mass-timber structures' raw-material use, instead of trying to design the tallest possible wooden building.
Marius is concerned that "wood is only renewable if we replant what we cut out in a reasonable way, or we use what we farm".
"The whole positive embodied carbon also requires reforestation so that the forests can perform at optimal," agreed Jason Ross.
JZ was upvoted for saying "material efficiency needs to be coupled with a discussion on adaptive reuse".
The author joined the debate to encourage those commenting. "The reuse, repurpose and recycling of building materials needs to play a key role in future material developments." said Max Pramreiter.
What do you think the best way to use timber is in future? Join the discussion ›
Comments update
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