I agree. This building has a subtle beauty about it. The fluted facade, the curves of the walls, the classy materials make it a great addition—both classical and modern. I like it a lot.
Yes, the architectural design is super fine. However, another great feature will be found by looking from the inside out: those large ‘single pane’ windows are an awesome feature for apartments.
The double hung, and multi-pane windows are what the vast majority of residential buildings have; so when people see the single pane (mullion less) windows they are often quite surprised how nice that ‘unobstructed’ view-thru looks.
Great architecture, fantastic windows: this one will sell well.
Photo from linked webpage - Historical Windows of New York.
See link for a nice primer on window types -
I’ve noted that you’ve used single pane windows to describe windows with no divisory mullions or muntins, but this implies that the window is a single pane/layer of glass when most windows are double or triple paned nowadays. Even windows with muntins are double paned.
I’m sure there is a better or more correct term to use than saying single paned to describe a window that is not divided into multiple segments, because pane refers to the number of layers and not necessarily how many divisions there are.
Maybe just uninterrupted windows.
I was thinking to use the term “picture window”. Hopefully, the posted photo helped a bit with making the point clear along with my description of the ‘uninterrupted’ windows.
I had this a link regarding the terminology for window types. I was not sure which to choose: so many different terms - what a pain.
Full pane?
Thanks for that nice photo set Arctic Camel.
This new condo building is Beautiful - yet, does not err on the side of excess aesthetics. . I believe the relationship between Beauty & Usefulness in architecture is an inversely proportional proposition.
This new Condo building at 760 Madison is AS-GOOD-AS-IT-GETS by the particular standards and parameters I have here outlined regarding Beauty and Usefulness.
That being said, I went to my favorite AI companion GROK to get some feedback on the matter.
I hope you find it all as informative and enlightening as I have - enjoy.
My Question to GROK -
According to the Vitruvian Triad, Architecture has three primary attributes: Beauty, Usefulness & Firmness. I believe the Usefulness must not be compromised for to achieve high standard of Beauty/aesthetics. Do you agree?
Excerpt GROK response -
The Vitruvian Triad, as articulated by the Roman architect Vitruvius, emphasizes Strength (Firmitas), Utility (Utilitas), and Beauty (Venustas) as the three core attributes of architecture. Your position prioritizes Utility (Usefulness) over Beauty (aesthetics), arguing that usefulness should not be compromised to achieve aesthetic excellence. Let’s explore this perspective and whether I agree, drawing on reasoning and architectural principles.
Understanding the Triad
- Strength (Firmitas): The structural integrity and durability of a building, ensuring it stands the test of time and environmental forces.
- Utility (Utilitas): The functionality and practicality of a building, ensuring it serves its intended purpose effectively for its users.
- Beauty (Venustas): The aesthetic appeal, proportion, and visual harmony of a building, contributing to its cultural and emotional impact.
Vitruvius argued that these three qualities should exist in balance, as they collectively define good architecture. However, the relative priority of each attribute can vary depending on context, purpose, and philosophical stance.
Your Position: Prioritizing Usefulness
Your view emphasizes that Usefulness should not be sacrificed for Beauty. This perspective aligns with a functionalist approach to architecture, which prioritizes a building’s ability to serve its practical purpose—housing people, facilitating work, or enabling specific activities—over its aesthetic appeal. This stance is grounded in the idea that a building’s primary role is to meet the needs of its users, and compromising functionality for visual appeal risks undermining its core purpose.
For example:
- A beautifully designed hospital that prioritizes aesthetics over efficient patient flow or accessibility could hinder medical care, thus failing its users.
- A visually stunning residential building with poor insulation or impractical layouts might compromise comfort and livability.
This perspective resonates with modernist architectural principles, such as those championed by architects like Louis Sullivan, who famously stated, “Form follows function.” In this view, the aesthetic should emerge from or at least support the building’s functional purpose.
Counterpoint: The Case for Beauty
On the other hand, Beauty in architecture is not merely superficial. It has cultural, psychological, and social value:
- Emotional Impact: Aesthetically pleasing buildings can inspire, uplift, and foster a sense of identity or pride (e.g., iconic structures like the Sydney Opera House or the Parthenon).
- Cultural Significance: Beauty often reflects cultural values, craftsmanship, and historical context, contributing to a society’s legacy.
- Functional Synergy: In some cases, beauty enhances utility. For instance, well-proportioned spaces can improve user experience, as harmonious designs can make environments feel more comfortable or intuitive.
Architects like Frank Gehry or Zaha Hadid often pushed aesthetic boundaries, creating buildings that are both functional and visually transformative. However, critics sometimes argue that their focus on form occasionally compromises practicality or budget, which supports your concern about prioritizing usefulness.
That’s F beautiful.
Yes Renato those photos are surely is F, ing beautiful.
However, there is much more to Architecture than a pretty face. The Vitruvian Principals have been respected and acknowledged throughout the ages.
I like to herald the Vitruvian Triad every chance I get!
FYI. I have 6 other post on this topic. Click on my infoshare tag above to see my other comments/links/photos.