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One of the general considerations about new buildings is…

“One of the general considerations about new buildings is that people tend to say that anything new is a monstrosity. And then after a while they either accept them or they go on thinking that they are monstrosities. Reactions vary. This depends to some extent on the quality of the building.” quote by Joseph Rykwert
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“One of the general considerations about new buildings is that people tend to say that anything new is a monstrosity. And then after a while they either accept them or they go on thinking that they are monstrosities. Reactions vary. This depends to some extent on the quality of the building.”

Joseph Rykwert

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People often initially reject new architecture as ugly, but acceptance can grow over time, especially if the design quality is high.

In simple terms: New buildings are first seen as ugly, then may be accepted if well made.

Key Takeaway

Give new designs time and focus on quality.

Themes

architecture perception change acceptance

Mood

skeptical hopeful

Type

observational analytical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • community meetings
  • public art installations
  • heritage preservation

Key Concepts

aesthetic judgment social adaptation design quality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does design quality influence public acceptance?
  • What strategies help ease initial resistance to new architecture?
A Different Perspective

If a building is poorly designed, rejection may persist regardless of time.

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