Works in Progress Podcast Should we ban ugly buildings?
Nov 24, 2025
In this discussion, Samuel, an architecture contributor focused on conservation debates, shares insights on the YIMBY movement's division over aesthetics. He argues that aesthetic regulations can foster goodwill and curb opposition to development. They dissect the fine line between genuine complaints and those masking economic motives. The conversation explores how unified ownership and pattern-book designs can enhance visual appeal, while analyzing the mixed results of discretionary design reviews. Ultimately, the team advocates for local codes to balance beauty and function.
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Twitter Photo Sparked The Debate
- Sam Bowman photographed a new “very, very ugly” building next to a better-looking Victorian and posted it on Twitter.
- The tweet split his YIMBY-aligned followers and sparked the episode’s debate about design vs. density.
Pretexts Mask Deeper Opposition
- People often use environmental or aesthetic arguments as pretexts to block development.
- Ben Southwood argues many objections are strategic rather than genuine concern for bats or beauty.
Public Prefers Older Architectural Styles
- Public opinion strongly favors older-looking buildings in aesthetic rankings.
- Surveys show people typically rank older hospitals and civic buildings as more attractive than newer ones.