"Love it when architecture puts a smile on my face" says commenter

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing the completion of the UK's largest co-housing project by Barefoot Architects in Dorset.

Named Hazelmead, the development is made up of a series of brick and timber-clad blocks lined by car-free streets and shared vegetable gardens.

"Wonderful looking project with a strong community focus"

The project received high praise from some Dezeen readers. "Very attractive project – excellent site and unit plans," admired Karl.

Miles Teg chimed in to say "I love it when architecture puts a smile on my face", before adding "amazing project, even more amazing photography – I've really enjoyed this."

"More of this please!" exclaimed Andy Enock. Commenter JZ was also impressed by the results, recognising that "achieving real wood and brick with a cost of 80 per cent market value is pretty awesome."

Also in favour, Dwg thought it was "a wonderful looking project with a strong community focus."

However, other commenters were less forgiving in their assessments. Tom Roberts weighed in to say "the exterior just looks messy."

Messy or attractive? Join the discussion ›

"Splendid simplicity"

Also causing a stir in the comments section was a home in Ireland created by A2 Architects with a minimalist white form topped by a red corrugated metal roof.

Several commenters thought there was a lack of congruence between the inside and outside.

"The interior is really, really thoughtful – the exterior looks bland and lacking in a personality," argued Grant Macdonald. In agreement was Alfred Hitchcock, suggesting "the interior is gorgeous, the exterior less so."

For Chris, the home had an "interesting interior, but looks more like a Kubrick set than a place I'd like to live". They added "very divorced from the outside."

Other readers were more clearly in favour of the project. Ben called it "clean AF, damn nice", while Don Bronkema praised the "splendid simplicity".

"The simple roof shape is especially compelling," contributed The Truth.

Have you had your say? Join the discussion ›

"Rustic and traditional while also quietly contemporary"

Also provoking debate in the comments section was the transformation of the restaurant at a boutique hotel in Switzerland by Australian architect Jakob Sprenger, finished with bespoke furniture and fittings.

Not everyone was sold, with Tom Roberts describing it as "terribly busy."

Others were more complimentary. "The wood and bronze tones and textures work really well together – looks lovely," applauded SwissBeats. "Rustic and 'traditional' while also quietly contemporary," they remarked.

"Sexy, and of course, excellent stuff," said Souji.

What's your take? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

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