Architecture: Zaha Hadid: Chinese Gem That Elevates Its Setting by Nicolai Ouroussoff

Guangzhou Opera House by Zaha Hadid, photo by Iwan Baan

The outstanding architecture critic Nicolai Ouroussoff has written an inspired and inspiring article entitled “Chinese Gem That Elevates Its Setting” in the Art & Design section of The New York Times looking at the marvel that is Zaha Hadid‘s Guangzhou Opera House.  Ouroussoff’s fine eye, and gift for language, make his article a model for astute, yet accessible, architectural observation and critique.

Knowing that Ouroussoff will soon be leaving his post as primary architecture critic at The New York Times, to be replaced by art critic Michael Kimmelman, certainly saddens us here at Designalog, who have always appreciated, though not always agreed with, his keen observations (though we have always thought his writing was marvelous).  We hope that he will continue to offer us, in the future, the fruits of his many talents.

Any information on Ouroussoff’s next endeavors?  Any ideas about an art critic taking on the role of the primary architecture critic for such a widely read publication?  Do let us know.

Excellent slide show, with photos by Iwan Baan, accompanying Ouroussoff’s article, here.

Guangzhou Opera House by Zaha Hadid, interior view; photo by Iwan Baan

images: Iwan Baan/The New York Times

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