Léon Krier returns to our UK column for the third installment of our discussion on architecture and urbanism. In this interview we look at the future of urban development, starting with NeomA mirror-like “line” city floating in the Saudi Arabian desert.
of Guardian Report in July 2022 that:
The marketing materials are striking: two mirrored skyscrapers stretching more than 100 miles across desert and mountain range, and future home to nine million people. Is this the ultimate in high-density living, or an epic sci-fi fantasy?
In short, economists, architects and analysts aren't sure: Saudi Arabia's plans to create an urban utopia are so bold that even those working on the project, known as The Line, aren't yet sure whether its scale and scope is feasible.
According to the Saudis, artificial intelligence will play a central role in how people live in the 500-metre-tall, 200-metre-wide structure, which is car-free and carbon-neutral, boasting near-total sustainability and a warm, regulated microclimate. Previous environmental pledges by the Kingdom, including a pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2060, have drawn skepticism from environmentalists.
For more information, Neom City official websiteVisitors will see an image-heavy view of the project.
In the interview, which follows two short video clips showcasing the Neom project, Krier describes the new city as an absurd one that makes promises that don't match reality. He's unimpressed with The Line's ultra-high tech, arguing that low-tech architecture should still be embraced where appropriate and effective, especially mud construction in hot, dry climates.
He emphasizes that much of modern urban development is driven by a model of growth that no one can control. He also describes zoning as the “massification of planning” which in turn promotes the homogenization of architecture, economic class and community. He reminds us that all of this was challenged by Prince Charles, Crier's former architectural patron, as the only voice in the “crowd of (architectural and planning) criminals”.
Later in the interview, Kurier expresses his concern about Ukraine and President Zelensky's request to BlackRock to plan for the future, warning that there will be no small-scale developments, and that many parts will be “robotized,” phasing out jobs and the human element.
Krier finishes by looking at what people aspire to: to be able to build their own homes and grow their own food, and concludes by commenting on Léon Krier's attractive, low-cost wooden house. Seaside Community In Florida.
