Throughout my career in design media, this came up as a question from architects more than anything else. Here’s my take on the demise of architectural criticism.
A thoughtful article, Aleesha. There is a distinct lack of critical appraisal across the design sector for all the reasons you've outlined and so many challenges for all types of publishing. One platform that might be good for architecture criticism is subscription models like Substack, where trusted critics can publish and be directly compensated.
Thanks so much Pippa. I've been thinking more about it over the weekend and wanted to also add that not everything needs to be critical in a negative way, there is certainly a lot of fantastic work being done, but by comparison every project published is deemed 'incredible' or 'beautiful' and I do think there's space for commentary that is a bit more weary, considered and well researched.
A thoughtful article, Aleesha. There is a distinct lack of critical appraisal across the design sector for all the reasons you've outlined and so many challenges for all types of publishing. One platform that might be good for architecture criticism is subscription models like Substack, where trusted critics can publish and be directly compensated.
Thanks so much Pippa. I've been thinking more about it over the weekend and wanted to also add that not everything needs to be critical in a negative way, there is certainly a lot of fantastic work being done, but by comparison every project published is deemed 'incredible' or 'beautiful' and I do think there's space for commentary that is a bit more weary, considered and well researched.
Agreed.
Super insightful! And something I’d wondered about. Also beautiful architectural photography
Thanks Caitlin xxx