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The separation of different uses by a datum wall is a formal
approach that is driven by the plan. This is not extraordinary
for Meier, though, as most of his buildings utilize geometric
devices in plan as a starting point for his designs. His reliance
upon two-dimensional design considerations is also evident in
the courthouse's elevations. For example, the repetitious south
facade is broken up by a vertical fissure of balconies, located
according to elevation, not programmatic considerations. Meier's
ignorance of context is apparent in the elevations also: painted
white aluminum panels that call attention to the building rather
than creating a dialogue with its surroundings (the courthouse
is adjacent to the existing County Courthouse). The fact that
Meier constantly uses these white panels in any context reinforces
his ignorance of context and, combined with his geometric tendencies,
says he wants to create easily replicated (by his staff) signature
buildings. |
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