Saving Face: Do outsider practices damage the character of an Urban Environment?

This discussion actually comes from an idea on the Cork: Architecture & Development thread regarding defining architectural character within a built environment.

Do the influx of ‘outsider’ design practices damage or distort the natural character of an urban environment by imposing their own design philosophies? Or do they simply add variety to the ubran grain?

Is it a case of ”good architecture” will naturally seek to address the local environment – or does discipline developed outside of the working area have a greater predominance over the outcome of a project design?

For example: Established Firm XYZ, Dublin opens an office in Cork.

I’m not necessarily taking a position and I suppose I have my own answers but I’m interested in hearing other opinions. 😮