In this week's comments update, readers are discussing criticism of Revit from some of the UK's largest architecture practices and sharing their views on other top stories.

American software company Autodesk has come under fire for its Building Information Modelling (BIM) software Revit.

In an open letter to Autodesk's president Andrew Anagnost, 17 architecture studios including Zaha Hadid Architects and Grimshaw have expressed their dissatisfaction with the software claiming that costs of Revit have risen rapidly in the past five years, but the product hasn't been developed at a similar rate.

"Like charging 2020 prices for a Cadillac on a 2005 Ford Focus"

Autodesk has vowed to listen to the feedback. But readers aren't convinced. It's "like charging 2020 prices for a Cadillac on a 2005 Ford Focus," said UTF.

"This software is bad," agrees Michal C. "My life got way shorter thanks to constantly fighting its limits and bad design. Using it in building design is like doing brain surgery using two bricks as the only tools."

"'In the last few years as we've transformed Autodesk to become a subscription-based company that can serve our customers better,' – this has no benefit for the customer, only for Autodesk," added Money. "If the improvements were real and substantial, clients would have an incentive to buy or upgrade to a new version even without subscriptions."

"It's good to see architects finally build up some leverage towards software companies that heavily influence not only most architects' everyday life but also the way we build!" concluded Davide.

Are readers being harsh? Join the discussion ›

Reader thinks "dropping the O2 masks for the entire flight would be easier" than redesigning planes for Covid-19

PriestmanGoode has resigned business and economy-class plane cabins to be "future-proof" against potential new pandemics. The project boasts "colour psychology" to alleviate passenger anxiety and dirt trap-free surfaces, sparking reader debate.

"I like that when you recline you reduce your own leg room instead of the person behind you," said Keith Dougal. "Even if only that comes out of this it's a small victory for common people."

Chris Becket continued: "Seat pockets should be done away with, no matter what happens next with this pandemic."

"Just dropping the O2 masks for the entire flight would be easier," joked Steve Hassler.

Are you impressed with Pure Skies? Join the discussion ›

Commenter says Zaha Hadid Architects' project "could be Rivendell's retreat for the rich"

Zaha Hadid Architects has designed a residential community for Roatán, a Caribbean island off the coast of Honduras. The properties feature curved roofs and rounded balconies that can be customised by residents, leading to comments about cost.

"Would be a great set for the elves if another Lord of The Rings movie is made," joked Efrain Perez. "Could be Rivendell's retreat for the rich."

"Curved wood roofs, walls, balustrade... Can you imagine the cost of this project?" asked Apsco Radiales. "Probably 10 fold of what NASA spent going to the moon."

"This is actually quite nice," praised Zea Newland. "I like how they managed to create the studio's signature shapes with wood. The cross-over of vernacular elements and the usual spectacle works quite well."

What do you think of Roatán Próspera? Join the discussion ›

Red House is "simple and beautiful house" according to reader

Oslo architecture studio Sanden+Hodnekvam Arkitekter has designed a red house from prefabricated concrete panels in Norway, dividing readers.

"Simple and beautiful house," said Leo, on one hand.

"Could have fooled me," replied Apsco Radiales. "I thought it was a medical building. I would have preferred that all windows open and exposed exterior stairs can be tricky in snow and ice. It's bold though, I have to admit."

"With wood being an established building material in Scandinavia and with wooden panels being used in the interior, the use of concrete for the exterior seems like a big f-you to future generations," added Zea Newland. "Can we please stop the obsession with concrete?"

Are you a fan of Red House? Join the discussion ›

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