In this week’s comments update, readers are discussing the news that The Grand Ring in Osaka, designed by Sou Fujimoto, will largely be converted into firewood.
The timber structure, which encompassed the Expo 2025 Osaka site, was the world’s largest wooden construction, boasting a circumference of two kilometres.
“What a waste”
“WTF is wrong with people?” questioned Design Junkie. “Firewood, good grief,” they added, expressing disbelief. They were not alone in their sentiment. “What a waste,” criticized John Murphy, and Jason Long called the decision “pure sacrilege”.
Deep State observed, “there’s enough wood in that thing to build hundreds of residential structures.” Robin Stokes echoed this, saying, “all that joinery, those huge construction-grade beams, they are perfect for reuse.”
Some commenters used irony to express their views. “Sounds environmentally friendly to me. Not much CO2 in that lot eh,” remarked Mobileman.
Pression de Gonflage added, “yes, this structure was always intended to be temporary – even so, to chop it up feels tragic.”
However, not everyone saw a problem with using the wood as “chips for fuel.” “This was the plan from the start…why are so many surprised?” asked Souji.
In a comment that was downvoted, Ripprind questioned, “why this whining?”, arguing that “timber is used for energy all the time.” They pointed out the wood “has now been used twice: for a temporary structure and energy production.”
Where do you stand on the issue? Join the discussion ›
“Quirky but tasteful touches throughout”
Readers were more unified in their praise for a farmhouse renovation in rural Kent by Studio Ben Allen, which includes a curved, oak-lined library and a vibrant colour palette.
“Most, if not all, the design choices have come from careful observation of the architectural context and the result is subtly spectacular,” commented Jb.
“The additions are particularly sensitive to the context – beautifully done,” they added.
Chris appreciated the “quirky but tasteful touches throughout” and felt that “everything is a pleasure to look at.”
Z-dog also praised the project, admiring the “beautiful joinery and wonderful choices of colour.” They noted, “the library design is very well considered, and the introduction of a circle as a focus in the house is lovely.”
“I love the colour, it’s bold but still harmonious,” wrote Prado Sellinger. “The conservatory space is amazing – great blend of old and new,” they added.
Do you share these views? Join the discussion ›
“Great how old meets new with the sculptural base and traditional pot”
Opinions were divided on Matteo Frontini’s redesigned Moka coffee pot, featuring a helical spiral base that reportedly halves brewing time.
Steve Hassler commented, “love this – great how old meets new with the sculptural base and traditional pot.”
However, John Hytte was less enthusiastic, saying “it looks terrible” and declaring, “give me my good old Bialetti any time.”
Henry noted, “it’s weird to launch an aluminium product in our post-gas era as it won’t work on induction hobs.”
Jason Long expressed concerns about practicality: “although it looks cool and I expect the science works, cleaning would become a bit tiresome.”
What’s your opinion? Join the discussion ›
Comments update
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