Skopje's Central Post Office, built in 1974 by Janko Konstantinov, is a striking example of Brutalist architecture, featuring interconnected concrete domes and cylindrical towers. Though intended to symbolize communication and connection after a devastating earthquake, the building now faces an uncertain future. While some appreciate its unique design and historical significance, others consider it an eyesore. The article highlights the ongoing debate about its preservation versus demolition, emphasizing the complex relationship between architectural heritage, modernization, and public opinion in post-earthquake Skopje.
Helvetica is ubiquitous in New York City's signage, especially in the subway system. Originally designed as a neutral, legible typeface, it became the standard for wayfinding and official communications, conveying authority and efficiency. The post explores this pervasiveness, showcasing numerous examples of Helvetica's use across various applications from street signs to building names. Its widespread adoption, though intended to create a unified and clear urban environment, has arguably led to a homogenized visual landscape. The essay ultimately suggests that while functional, Helvetica's dominance potentially diminishes the city's unique visual character.
HN commenters largely appreciate the deep dive into Helvetica's use in NYC signage, particularly its historical context and evolution. Some debate the merits of Helvetica versus other sans-serif fonts, with a few suggesting alternatives like Franklin Gothic or Akzidenz-Grotesk would be better choices. Others highlight the importance of considering the overall design, not just the font, pointing out that even Helvetica can be used poorly. A couple of commenters offer additional examples of Helvetica's pervasiveness, referencing its use in government and transportation systems. One compelling observation notes the shift away from Helvetica in newer signage, suggesting a changing aesthetic landscape in the city.
Frank Lloyd Wright's "The Illinois," a mile-high skyscraper designed in 1956, was a utopian vision far ahead of its time. The 528-story structure, intended for Chicago, incorporated atomic-powered elevators, five-story "streets" within the building, and mooring masts for dirigibles. Though technologically infeasible at the time, the design showcased Wright's ambition to create a self-contained vertical city addressing population density and urban sprawl, emphasizing spaciousness and integration with nature despite its immense scale. The project highlighted Wright's distinctive organic architecture principles, showcasing a unique blend of engineering ambition and aesthetic vision that continues to fascinate today.
Hacker News users discuss the practicality and aesthetics of Wright's "The Illinois," a mile-high skyscraper designed in 1956. Several commenters express skepticism about the feasibility of such a massive structure, particularly regarding elevator capacity and wind loads. Others question the atomic-powered elevators and the overall utility of a building that size. Some appreciate the ambitious vision and architectural boldness while acknowledging its likely impracticality. A few note the similarity to the tapering design of the Burj Khalifa, suggesting Wright's design may have been ahead of its time in some ways. The discussion also touches upon the societal implications of such a dense structure, with some arguing it epitomizes the flaws of top-down urban planning.
Boston City Hall's Brutalist design emerged from a complex interplay of factors in the 1960s. Facing pressure to revitalize Scollay Square and embrace modernism, the city held an architectural competition. The winning design by Kallmann, McKinnell & Knowles, though initially controversial for its stark departure from traditional styles, aimed to embody democratic ideals with its open plaza and accessible interior. The project, part of a larger urban renewal effort, reflected the era's optimism about government's ability to solve social problems through architecture and urban planning. Despite its initial unpopularity, City Hall stands as a significant example of Brutalist architecture and a testament to the city's ambition for a modern future.
HN commenters discuss Boston City Hall's Brutalist architecture, mostly negatively. Several lament its ugliness and unfriendliness, comparing it to a parking garage or fortress. Some criticize its impracticality and lack of human scale, citing confusing navigation and wind tunnels. A few offer counterpoints, arguing that it's a significant example of Brutalist architecture, reflecting the era's optimism about government's role. One suggests its imposing design might have been intentional, meant to convey authority. The concrete's weathering and the surrounding plaza's design are also criticized. A couple of commenters express appreciation for the building's unique character, suggesting that its starkness has a certain appeal.
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https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43186433
HN commenters largely lament the demolition of Skopje's Brutalist post office, viewing it as a significant architectural loss and a regrettable example of discarding unique historical structures. Some discuss the complex history of Skopje's rebuilding after the 1963 earthquake, noting the influence of Japanese Metabolist architects like Kenzo Tange. A few express ambivalence towards the building's aesthetic, acknowledging its unusual nature but not necessarily considering it beautiful. Others highlight the seemingly arbitrary nature of preservation efforts, questioning why some buildings are saved while others are demolished. There's also discussion about the challenges of repurposing such specialized structures and the potential role of public opinion in preservation decisions.
The Hacker News post titled "Skopje’s eccentric post office (2021)" linking to an article about the demolition of Skopje's Central Post Office generated a moderate amount of discussion, with a focus on architectural preservation, the impact of earthquakes, and the complexities of urban renewal.
One commenter lamented the loss of unique architectural landmarks, arguing that such buildings contribute to a city's character and identity. They expressed disappointment that seemingly functional structures are often torn down instead of being repurposed or integrated into new developments. This commenter also highlighted the apparent contradiction of preserving historically significant, yet damaged, structures while demolishing more recent, potentially sound buildings.
Another commenter offered a counterpoint, suggesting that the post office might have suffered structural damage during the 1963 Skopje earthquake, making its demolition necessary. They acknowledged the building's aesthetic value but emphasized the importance of safety and practicality in urban planning. This sparked a brief discussion about the long-term effects of earthquakes on buildings and the challenges of assessing structural integrity decades later.
A third commenter shifted the focus to broader urban development trends, criticizing the seemingly haphazard approach to architectural preservation and urban planning in many cities. They lamented the loss of architectural diversity and the tendency to replace unique structures with generic, modern buildings. This commenter used Skopje as an example of a wider phenomenon where historical context and architectural significance are often overlooked in favor of short-term economic gains or perceived modernization.
Several other commenters expressed a general appreciation for Brutalist architecture and regretted the demolition of the post office, viewing it as a loss of a unique piece of architectural history. One commenter specifically highlighted the building's dome, describing it as a standout feature.
While there wasn't an extensive debate, the comments reflect a range of perspectives on the demolition, balancing appreciation for the building's architectural significance with practical considerations related to earthquake damage and urban renewal. The most compelling comments highlight the tension between preserving historical structures and the evolving needs of a city, particularly in the context of natural disasters and ongoing development.