Architectural Design Comment
Richard Toleman - August 2005
Why are we Forced to Accept Architectural Blandness?
It is almost a cliché to say that Linlithgow is the Jewel in the Crown of
West Lothian. That many visitors come to see the Palace, the Loch, the
canal area and walk the main street, is not in dispute. But they are
coming to see history. What do they make of modern architecture in
Linlithgow?
Putting aside the long past Vennel redevelopment and the Parish Church spire,
both of which were controversial, what exists to celebrate building in the 20th
and early 21st century? There is nothing but architectural
blandness. The last "modern" building to justify a visit is the
Chalmers Hall and cottage opposite. Is this really the best that Linlithgow can
offer for recent times?
Just run through in your mind's eye recent mass housing. Progressively
it has moved from the simple and straightforward, to the whimsical and now the
Disney-like kitsch. Well designed mass housing does exist in the UK but it
is seldom seen. The Drum at Bo'ness is a nearby good example.
Why is Linlithgow left behind? Are designers afraid of innovation? Is
WLC afraid of the critics of innovation? Do WLC officials sweat over
another Vennel furore? Bland is safe, bland is good, bland is unemotional,
bland is the opiate of the people.
The larger multi-occupancy buildings are equally bland. The best that
can be said of them is that they are totally forgettable. Try to remember
what the new block of flats overlooking the Loch looks like. Having a
problem? It's dull, dull, dull. This unique site demanded an
outstanding design. The result - dullness. Other multi-occupancy
buildings are under construction, but will they be any better? Watch the
spaces.
So, what to do?
I can bang on endlessly like the best of "Grumpy Old Men", it will
achieve nothing. One of LCT's objectives is to "promote good and
appropriate design in new developments". Judged by results, it has
failed to do so. But it does have difficulties, as its main function is to
comment on proposed planning applications. It cannot insist on
innovation. Perhaps LCT should lobby WLC, saying that we are fed up with
dross, and want more imaginative buildings.
What do you think? If we do nothing, we shall get more and more of the
forgettable sameness or, worse, the unbelievably bizarre.
What will visitors to Linlithgow at the end of the 21st. century say about
present day buildings? I suspect they will have nothing to say, because
nothing is notable.
Have Your Say!
If you want to express your own opinions on relevant issues, whether or not
in response to Richard Toleman's article, please send them to the Secretary or
email them to newsletter@lct.org.uk.
We will include them here if we feel that they are relevant.
The opinions expressed here are those of the relevant authors and do not
represent the views of Linlithgow Civic Trust.
|
