King Alfred Campaign
LETTER TO THE ARGUS
Re Planning Application No. BH 2005 / 055594
As pointed out by the letter headed "Deceptive artistry", Argus Oct 27th, the artist's impression of the King Alfred was almost certainly produced by someone in favour of the project. Such impressions are carefully staged to sell an idea. Well aware of how easily a model and selective photography can give a false impression, I have drawn views from the Lawns and from St Aubyns that accurately depict the size and impact of the Gehry project on
its surroundings.
These are not exaggerated, and if built, the buildings would have a far greater impact than any impression can reproduce. Those who have seen my drawings have been shocked, unaware that the towers would loom over Hove so menacingly.
It should also be pointed out that this is not "world class" architecture, but Gehry's interpretation of the discredited Deconstruction movement of the 'nineties. His trick of making the towers look as if they are falling down is part of that movement's desire to create an architecture carefully designed for a very specific effect: not to look elegant or graceful, but to look jumbled, chaotic and nonsensical. In this architecture of "Destruction" Gehry has succeeded, and will be hoping to see his name in the architectural Hall of Fame, joining a select few who have persuaded gullible clients to build something that they were persuaded was "world class." One born every minute apparently.
I urge the residents of Brighton and Hove to step in at this late stage and save the reputation of the city by sending a letter of objection to the Development Control Manager, Brighton and Hove City Council, Town Hall, Norton Road, Hove BN3 3BQ. The word OBJECT should be written above or below the planning application number. and the closing date for objections is November 21st.
Dr. Geoffrey H Baker, former Reader in architecture, Brighton Polytechnic. professor emeritus in architecture, Tulane University, USA.