I'm currently researching cities which have been artificially created for a post-grad 'taster' essay, leading into a dissertation. When I say 'artificial', it implies that unplanned building is 'natural' or organic, which I understand has its own issues. But the simple idea that someone, a king, president, or in the case of China, a committee, could effectively wave their hand and create new place, with all the attributes a city contains, is fascinating, even if it is rarely seen as successful.
Regardless, looking at the plan of Brasilia shows a strain of idealism which I think can still be seen in (much) smaller projects by people like Isay Weinfeld. Brasilia has had many of the urban problems associated with developing cities everywhere, coupled with a high cost of living which many capitals are afflicted by, but I can't help but be impressed by the initial idealism of Niemeyer and specifically, Costa's plan.
On a side note, how amazing to be able to get such an amazing book, with original pullout maps and introductions by J.K. and Niemeyer, not to mention Corbusier, for four quid off Amazon! Brilliant.
Regardless, looking at the plan of Brasilia shows a strain of idealism which I think can still be seen in (much) smaller projects by people like Isay Weinfeld. Brasilia has had many of the urban problems associated with developing cities everywhere, coupled with a high cost of living which many capitals are afflicted by, but I can't help but be impressed by the initial idealism of Niemeyer and specifically, Costa's plan.
On a side note, how amazing to be able to get such an amazing book, with original pullout maps and introductions by J.K. and Niemeyer, not to mention Corbusier, for four quid off Amazon! Brilliant.
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