Prince Charles was right - Modern architecture is still all glass stumps and carbuncles

Prince Charles was right - Modern architecture is still all glass stumps and carbuncles

30 Jun 2008

An Intelligence² debate with the RIBA Trust, as part of the London Festival of Architecture 2008.

Speakers for the motion: Simon Jenkins, Leon Krier and Roger Scruton.

Speakers gainst the motion: Sean Griffiths, Stephen Bayley and Alain de Botton. Chaired by Anna Ford.

Roger Scruton opens the case for the motion arguing that the debate concerns the rule not the exception - the modern office and apartment block are not made for the city but against it. Simon Jenkins reaffirms the motion highlighting the changing history of modern architecture; Le Corbusier and the Utopian 1960's-70's new society were a form of social engineering through architecture; examples of which are being demolished across the world. Finally HRH The Prince of Wales' Poundbury architect, Leon Krier, defends the motion, and calls for a return to tradtional architecture.

In opposition to the motion, Stephen Bayley warns against HRH's criticism of advancement, and describes him as fearful for the future and dismissive of the present. Alain de Botton defends modern architecture on its cultural and social merits celebrating design and architecture's great achievements. Finally, architecture professor at Manchester University Sean Griffiths proclaims the motion as the swan-song of a debate that has been running for 24 years, calling for a closer examination of important issues concerning the government of Britain over the last two decades.

First Vote: For 199, Against 365, Don’t know 119.

Final Vote: For 266, Against 391, don’t know 29.

BUY THE DVD