This is a concept rendering of the New Inntel Hotel, an interesting project to be built in the Dutch town of Zaandam later this year. The building is actually a simple rectangular block that is collaged with the facades of traditional Dutch houses. The folks over at BoingBoing thought this was just great, but we at Adobe Submarine think the zealous façade treatment borders on tacky. I can almost appreciate the lego-like facade treatment, but it screams "regionalism" in the worst possible way. The New Inntel reminds us of some of the more unfortunate regionalist architecture located throughout New Mexico. The entirety of Downtown Santa Fe is built in the "pueblo" style that permeates much of the southwest. Of course, the intention is to expose visitors to the region's unique vernacular building style, but while that goal is admirable, what results is a lack of authenticity. An exterior veneer is nothing but a cheap knockoff of the real thing, and unfortunately, this somewhat confusing assemblage of Dutch vernacular fits that particular bill. But hey, if American tourists will pay good money to stay in tragically themed bed and breakfast rooms, who's to say that this kitschy little nugget won't turn into a gold mine? Images (from top):
1) New Inntel Hotel Rendering. 2) Traditional Dutch row houses. 3) Present-day Downtown Santa Fe. 4) Taos Pueblo, circa 1893.
Entries
This seems like the architectural equivalent of a mash-up, only its just from one artists material. I really like the idea this sort of building though it might be more interesting, albeit more complicated, if it was a collection of various styles instead of just one. I really don't know what I am talking about, but that building sure is crazy looking! Blog more already, would you?
ReplyDelete