Design overkill

I had the opportunity to attend a performance at the new Walt Disney Concert Hall. My first impression of the exterior was “Wow!” Then as I started to climb the exterior stairs and look over the barrier, I noticed how the metal sheets attracted dirt. A fine layer of dirt, along with handprints decorated the wall.

I also noticed that the screws were visible giving it an real industrial look. It quickly became unattractive and boring. It doesn’t take much effort to screw sheet metal together. Compared to the fine carvings on ancient cathedrals, I doubt this design will stand the test of time.

The concert hall was impressive at first glance. Sitting down, there was about 3 inches from your knees to the wall. Not much leg room and I’m short. It’s a good thing the concert was particularly short because I wouldn’t want to sit there for over an hour. The seating downstairs wasn’t any better. They provided no leg room.

Did the designers every measure anything or where they so concerned about their sheet metal they forgot about human comforts?

Penny Hayes

Long Beach