Part 1

"Form matters, but more for what it can do than what it looks like." - Stan Allen, page 2.

This quote resonated with me because it is an issue that I have been contemplating for a long time. In my previous investigations into the built environment, I insisted that forms that were radically different from their surroundings were unsuccessful in their efforts to integrate into their landscape and instead disintegrate the essence of the space. For example, the Mercat de Stanta Caterina in Barcelona is a building widely different from any in it's vicinity. It's swooping rooftop and structural system, although extremely impressive and interesting in their own regards, did not contribute to a successful integration into the fabric of Barcelona upon initial investigation. But the building is more than just an object in a field. Because it is such a distinct building, inhabitants are drawn to it, creating an exciting urban space. The building serves as a catalyst to promote the market which inhabits it, perfectly executing the design intent.

But at what point do these landmarks become excessive? If there are too many buildings that drastically stand out from the existing fabric, will the city lose it's identity?