"To chop this structure up feels tragic" says commenter
In this week's comments update, readers are discussing the news that The Grand Ring in Osaka will be mostly turned into firewood, according to its architect Sou Fujimoto.
The structure was constructed to encircle the site of Expo 2025 Osaka and was the largest wooden structure in the world, with a circumference of two kilometres.
"What a waste"
"WTF is wrong with people?" asked Design Junkie. "Firewood, good grief," they wrote in disbelief. And they were far from the only commenter to argue this. "What a waste," scorned John Murphy, while Jason Long branded it "pure sacrilege".
Deep State pointed out that "there's enough wood in that thing to build hundreds of residential structures". In agreement, Robin Stokes argued, "all that joinery, those huge construction-grade beams, they are perfect for reuse."
Others couldn't resist the opportunity for irony. "Sounds environmentally friendly to me. Not much c02 in that lot eh," said Mobileman.
Pression de Gonflage weighed in to say "yes, this structure was always intended to be temporary – even so, to chop it up feels tragic."
However, others couldn't see the issue with the structure being burned as "chips for fuel". "This was the plan from the start...why are so many surprised?" wondered Souji.
In a comment that was downvoted seven times, Ripprind asked "why this whining?", arguing that "timber is used for energy all the time". They said the wood "has now been used twice: for a temporary structure and energy production."
Which side are you on? Join the discussion ›
"Quirky but tasteful touches throughout"
One project that readers could agree on was a farmhouse in rural Kent renovated by Studio Ben Allen, featuring a curved oak-lined library and playful colour scheme.
"Most, if not all, the design choices have come from careful observation of the architectural context and the result is subtly spectacular," reflected Jb.
"The additions are particularly sensitive to the context – beautifully done," they wrote.
Chris was a fan of the "quirky but tasteful touches throughout" and felt that "everything is a pleasure to look at".
Another commenter with nothing but praise was Z-dog, who admired the "beautiful joinery and wonderful choices of colour". They thought "the library design is very well considered, and the introduction of a circle as a focus in the house is lovely."
"I love the colour, it's bold but still harmonious," expressed Prado Sellinger. "The conservatory space is amazing – great blend of old and new," they wrote.
Do you agree? Join the discussion ›
"Great how old meets new with the sculptural base and traditional pot"
Readers struggled to reach a consensus about Mattao Frontini's updated Moka coffee pot design, characterised by a helical spiral base that he says cuts the time needed to brew coffee in half.
Steve Hassler said "love this – great how old meets new with the sculptural base and traditional pot."
But commenter John Hytte offered a less flattering assessment, suggesting "it looks terrible", before declaring "give me my good old Bialetti any time".
Meanwhile, Henry felt it was "weird to launch an aluminium product in our post-gas era as it won't work on induction hobs."
Jason Long had other concerns, saying "although it looks cool and I expect the science works, cleaning would become a bit tiresome."
What's your take? Join the discussion ›
Comments update
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