Dezeen opinion columnist Phineas Harper argued architects should abandon modernism in favour of traditional styles to appease populists, sparking a debate among readers in this week's comments update.
Unpopular opinion: Phineas Harper's call for all architects to become classicists in a bid to appear less elitist led to an in-depth discussion between readers.
"Is this a joke" The appropriation of classical symbolism into a future context is called postmodernism, and we have done it before," stated Bradley Schott.
Reader dmiller felt that architects are already focused on traditional designs: "Surely the biggest trend lately has been the house that looks like a house ? pointy roof and square windows in timber, brick or stone"" "I wish that we had been forced to design at least one classical building in university," lamented Z-dog.
"Duly noted. Let's make British architecture great again!" commented Strom Architects sarcastically.
One reader kept to the "classic" theme with their take:

Do you think architects are doing enough in response to rising populism" Have your say in our comment section ?

Grass isn't greener: London mayor Sadiq Khan's decision to pull the plug on the much-maligned Garden Bridge divided the opinions of Dezeen's readers.
Oliver was in agreement with the outcome: "I'm delighted by the news. It was always an ugly design, neither beautiful or useful."
Chuck Anziulewicz was c...