Corridors of Powerlessness

Thanks to my friend Dave for calling my attention to this short review of Deyan Sudjic's new book, The Edifice Complex.

Apparently, the book makes the case that most significant architecture is built by the people in power because they're the only ones who can afford to build it. Moreover, they build these buildings with the primary goal of extending their power and scaring the bejeezus out of the common folks.

The reviewer points out that if that's the main goal of most architecture (at least the historical stuff and the corporate/government buildings of today), it doesn't do a very good job, considering that many major buildings seem to be built as a company or government is about to crash and burn.

It kinda makes me want to read the book, but after I've read a review by someone who seems to have the author's number, it makes it feel a little pointless. Or maybe it's more like it makes me feel like I'm joining the other kids on the playground in making fun of the kid whose pants just fell down.