Design on an olympian scale
Posted 11 April 2007, by Aaron
The Olympic Games are always a hotbed for design and innovation, particularly in the area of architecture and urban design. Every four years one of the worlds great cities regenerates its underdeveloped districts into showcase Olympic Villages - always boasting the latest and greatest stadia.
In 2012 London is the lucky city. As costs are already spiralling far beyond what was originally estimated, many cynics are doubting whether London will be ready on time.
Personally I have a much more optimistic view. Buildings like these are what a nation should be proud of:
More pictures and artists impressions are available at the official London 2012 website. Also, over on PingMag there is a great interview with Eleanor Fawcett from Design for London, who is responsible for the regeneration of East London.
First however, we have the Beijing games in 2008. Even the Chinese have had their own internal squabbles regarding rising costs, but I’m not surprised - look at this stadium!
I love the look of this design, it is absolutely awe inspiring - although it reminds me of some kind of sci-fi film. It’s almost a little bit scary. Have a look at all 13 conceptual stadiums considered for the Beijing games (well worth it!).
What do you think of these Stadiums?
Is this architectural genius? A legacy to behold for decades? Or does all this nationalistic pride come at too much of a price? Maybe you think you could design a better stadium?
Many thanks for the recent comments: David, Char, Scot, Stevie and Andrew.
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Tags:Architecture, Design, Olympics, Stadiums, Urban Design
Scot Smith
11 April 2007, 11:50 pm