I really ought to start going to work.
Last year, the NCSU library (D.H. Hill) opened up a new wing, renovated to create new spaces and generally modernize the East Wing. Entering the wing from the central tower, though, I can't help but feel like the 1960s threw up all over the library.
The curvilinear forms, the bright colors, even the neon-rimmed clock and the large screen showing a rotating set of images (NCSU from Google Earth, Mount St. Helens from the air, various clouds and geographical features) scream "future" in the worst possible way: the overwrought manner of the Jetsonian design of the acid generation.
NCSU's main campus is riddled with poor design decisions that seem like they sprung directly from the body of the 60s, like Athena from Zeus. Harrelson Hall is a good example.
At least Harrelson has an excuse, though. It was built in 1961. I don't understand why the university thought that returning to this design idiom was a grand idea, especially after the successful erection of the very modern (in a good way) EB1.
Maybe it's a main campus thing. The stunning 1911 Building and Holladay Hall, along with their well-designed brethren, were all designed prior to the 1950. All of the buildings on main campus built after that are downright sloppy. Ah, well, I guess I'll just continue using the stacks when I'm in the library (not that I ever am). I have to admit, though, the new conservatory looks nice.
By my hand,
~Michael Akerman
1 comments:
I think the new wing in the library looks like a rocketship made by Apple.
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