Re: Re: Developments in Cork

previous scheme was much more successful. planners imo couldnt reconcile the need to integrate with streetscape along grand parade with its visual significance as a termination of the vista down washington street. they should have decided that one cannot address both equally, and should have decided to prioritise one over the other. i feel if they accepted that its importance as a terminating point for washington street in visual terms outweighed its role as part of the grand parade streetscape, a more interesting and acceptable design would have emerged. instead, the design is completely straight-jacketed between two conflicting design parameters and a slavish response to the planner’s conservative approach to this site.

what it needed i think was an acceptance that a strong visual statement was required on the grand parade. this involved an interruption of the established pattern and rhythm of grand parade facades, which is entirely acceptable. naturally, this would require a sensitive approach to the english market entrance. the problem with the central shoe stores is the signage. the building otherwise is fine and could have been integrated into the scheme. agree that it is a lumpy and boring design. pana facade ok.