The Design
The majority of the controversy about this structure has to do with its size. It is designed to be 590 feet high and have 42 floors. The project is supposed to cost about $555 million.
The Critics
Many feel that this “Monster Tower” will destroy the beauty of Paris and open up the possibilities of the city being taken over with other skyscrapers. Up until 2010 there were height restrictions that only allowed building to be up to 118 feet tall. This was supposed to preserve the aesthetic qualities of Paris. Many Parisians are actually opposed to the project. They feel that the city doesn’t need any more buildings. Instead it needs more options for housing and better public transportation.
The Supporters
Those who support the project feel that it’s great for the economy. It will create over 3,000 permanent jobs and maybe attract foreign architects and investors. Supporters do realize that the tower is large, but they say that the unique triangular shape of it will reduce shadows that will be cast onto other buildings surrounding it and that the modern architecture will give Paris a more modern feel that it’s currently lacking. They also feel that it would actually add to the city with its panoramic restaurant and observatories as well as street level shops.
Despite the fact that the project is set to begin in 2017 and completed in 2020, it will probably face a lot of hurdles before construction can even begin. Even though the project has been approved for the second time, it wouldn’t be surprising if it gets rejected once again. If it does get built it will be the tallest building to be constructed in central Paris since the Montparnasse Tower was completed in 1973. What are your thoughts on the Monster Tower? Do you think it will destroy the romantic feel of Paris or add to this dynamic city?
