As much as i would like to say that this image is extracted from a horror movie, or does not exist in our beloved Cairo, or even that its a non-recurring image... i cannot. If architecture is a physical representation of society as a whole, i believe this image says it all. A highly individualistic, selfish object that is only based on one single statement... "I AM DIFFERENT".
With the unprecedented amount of suburban villa-type houses, there has been a parallel denial of sameness, and a continuously growing demand for 'the new' or 'the different'. But what really happens when this demand for innovation exceeds the logical speed of theoretical and scientific innovation? This surreal villa is fueled not by inspiration from nature, dali's painting, gaudi's architecture, or even by the latest horror movie, but instead by conscious decisions to contrast with its natural and built context, to act as a powerful visual icon for its neighborhood differentiating itself, and to portray a clear statement of uniquness, power and prestige to its owner. As we get more immersed in our individuality, we loose all that connects us with the real world around us, and we are only able to see and live in fantasies. The architect becomes the maker of dreams.
And where does this leave us?
We are yet continuously forced to deal with a world that thinks and acts that way. We are continuously forced to follow the latest trends, fashion...etc. The flux is too fast that we cannot possibly catch up. And when we are forced to have premature responses... there's a great possibility that they will be disfigured.
I wonder if any one will actually buy it, and for how much.
photo credits : Karim Shokry
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