Medical Center

Your Jan. 19 article on UCLA’s new medical center was an excellent presentation of architect I.M. Pei’s concepts, but took several swipes at the existing medical center. It is important to note that the existing medical center, designed by the architectural firm of Welton Becket and Associates, was filled with innovations when it was opened 45 years ago. The concept of a teaching facility integrated on a floor-by-floor basis with a hospital was unique in the nation, as were many other innovations, even including the external sunshades.

We can only hope that the new structure will hold up as well 45 years from the date it is opened as the existing facility has done.

MARTIN A. BROWER

Corona del Mar