The Cloud by MVRDV may have an innocent enough name, but its design happens to hold a very different perspective. Although the bulging middle can be taken as pixelated clouds that creates an illusion that this building is taller than it actually is, those 'clouds' actually have a more sinister existence. The Cloud by MVRDV happens to resemble the Twin Towers in New York City, which were the target of a terrorist attack that this design seems to pay tribute to.
Although the Dutch architects insist that the resemblance is simply a coincidence, the controversial similarity cannot be denied. Thus, the Cloud by MVRDV has been getting a lot of attention in the last few days. Yet MVRDV wants to make clear that it was "designed based on parameters such as sunlight, outside spaces, living quality for inhabitants and the city."
Controversially Exploding Architecture
The Cloud by MVRDV Looks Like a Tribute to the Twin Towers
Trend Themes
1. Controversial Architectural Design - A trend towards controversial and thought-provoking architectural designs that elicit strong reactions from viewers.
2. Illusionistic Architecture - A trend towards architectural designs that use optical illusions to create unique visual effects and perceptions.
3. Architectural Tribute - A trend towards architectural designs that pay homage or reference historical events or iconic structures.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects and design firms can explore opportunities to push boundaries and provoke new ways of thinking through controversial and illusionistic designs.
2. Urban Development - Urban planners and developers can consider incorporating illusionistic architectural designs into city landscapes to create visually striking landmarks and attractions.
3. Tourism and Hospitality - Hotels, resorts, and tourist destinations can leverage architectural tribute designs to create unique and memorable experiences for visitors.