Zaha Hadid Dashes to Finish Wangjing Soho Before Copycats
Meghan Young — January 9, 2013 — Art & Design
References: zaha-hadid & fastcodesign
It is not everyday that an architect finds him- or herself pit against a design suspiciously close to his or her own, but that is exactly the position renowned architect Zaha Hadid is in with her 11th building in China, the Wangjing Soho shopping center. In a world where copycats are thriving more than ever thanks to the immediacy of information and inspiration, the Wangjing Soho will soon have a sister building in Meiquan 22nd Century.
Nevertheless, while some focus on this 'competition' to the finish line as a plagerism scandal, Hadid doesn't view the Wangjing Soho as an exact replica of the Wangjing Soho. First of all, it involves two towers rather than three. Secondly, the Meiquan 22nd Century developers have commented on the similarities, cheekily observing they "never meant to copy, only want to surpass." To which Hadid sportingly notes any improvements "could be quite exciting"
Nevertheless, while some focus on this 'competition' to the finish line as a plagerism scandal, Hadid doesn't view the Wangjing Soho as an exact replica of the Wangjing Soho. First of all, it involves two towers rather than three. Secondly, the Meiquan 22nd Century developers have commented on the similarities, cheekily observing they "never meant to copy, only want to surpass." To which Hadid sportingly notes any improvements "could be quite exciting"
Trend Themes
1. Architectural Copycats - The rise of architectural copycats poses a challenge for renowned architects like Zaha Hadid, but also opens up opportunities for innovative solutions that protect intellectual property.
2. Competition in Building Design - With the immediacy of information and inspiration, architects are increasingly facing competition from similar building designs, driving the need for unique and standout designs.
3. Innovation in Shopping Centers - The development of shopping centers, like the Wangjing Soho, presents opportunities for innovative designs that differentiate from competitors and attract customers.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The architecture industry is being disrupted by the rise of copycats and increased competition, prompting the need for innovative solutions to protect designs and stand out.
2. Real Estate Development - Real estate developers face the challenge of differentiating their building designs in a competitive market, driving the need for creative and unique solutions.
3. Retail - The retail industry can benefit from innovative shopping center designs that provide unique experiences to customers, helping to attract and retain customers in a competitive market.
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