Architecture and design often spark intense debates, and this week’s discussions on Dezeen are no exception. From bold statements to controversial concepts, these projects are dividing opinions—and we’re here to dive into the details.
Tiffany & Co’s Beijing Flagship: A Bold Statement or Over the Top?
This week, readers are buzzing about the new Tiffany & Co. flagship store in Beijing, designed by Dutch studio MVRDV. The 20-metre-high facade, crafted from translucent, frosted glass fins in an icy blue hue, was inspired by jewelry created by Italian designer Elsa Peretti. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some praise its elegance, others call it just another generic luxury facade. Steve Hassler hailed it as "beautiful," and the Institute of Urban Technology described it as "an elegant and carefully considered architectural gesture." John-in-Melbourne admitted, "Perhaps a little over the top, but it makes a statement, that’s for sure." Yet, Davvid dismissed it as "yet another dull, undulating glass facade for a luxury brand," criticizing the overuse of logos and a banal interior. Weetbix added a sharp critique, comparing it to the nearby Louis Vuitton store and calling the concept "a luxury fast-food get-it-done manual." Is this design a masterpiece or a missed opportunity? What’s your take?
Beijing Art Museum: Innovative or Just a Circle of TVs?
Snøhetta’s design for the Beijing Art Museum is another project stirring debate. The building features rectangular volumes radiating around a circular atrium, but not everyone is convinced. Melon joked, "Mid-design process, Snøhetta unearths a bunch of old CRT monitors in the studio spring clean," while Deep State quipped it looks like "a bunch of televisions arranged in a circle." Beyond aesthetics, Design Junkie questioned the necessity of yet another massive museum, asking, "Is there enough art in the entire world to fill every museum in China?" Leo echoed concerns about its scale, wondering if it’s truly a "cultural hub for the local community" or just too big. Does this design prioritize form over function? Share your thoughts!
A Finnish Community Centre: A Hidden Gem or a Throwback?
Nervin Architecture’s community centre in Finland, with its terracotta-toned concrete, brickwork, and tiles, has also captured attention. Karl compared it to a "typical Marin County, California office complex from the 1970s/80s," while Diorama called it "beautiful—a pearl of a project," though suggesting it needs more greenery and interior decor. Jb praised the overhangs to windows as a "novel idea" worth catching on. Is this project a refreshing design or a nostalgic miss? Let us know!
Join the Conversation
Dezeen remains the world’s most commented architecture and design magazine, with thousands of readers sharing their views monthly. Stay updated on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter for the best reader insights. What’s your stance on these designs? Are they visionary or overhyped? We want to hear from you!
