Thompson Center is not a waste of space. It has more kinetic energy, both mechanical and human powered, than just about anywhere else in the city. Its indoor space is also public and democratic, a rarity as well. Ill take it over 95% of the buildings we've gotten in the past 20 years. And yes, the atrium is sacred. The fact that so much space was handed over to inspiring awe, playfulness and architectural expression rather than cramming in as many offices as possible speaks to just what a rarity the design is. It has more in common with medieval cathedrals than our modern econo shit boxes. Its a complete shame its purposely being neglected and allowed to fall into disrepair to by default create a case for its lack of relevance.
Not to say its without flaws. But offensive? Thompson center is FUN. Walking inside is like entering a scene from Jacque Tati's "Playtime". We have enough buttoned down self serious buildings in this city that have riffed on the same boring Miesan design for the past 60 years. I find that lack of creativity far more offensive. Give me something that makes me FEEL something. Apparently thats too much to ask from most architects and bean counters today.
Last edited by Via Chicago; Oct 5, 2016 at 9:11 PM.
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