Joe18

When Pei's pyramid at the Louvre was new, I recall that it received some negative reviews by critics. Is anyone aware of what the critics'views are now?

cigalechanta

I think it is accepted, some of the photos here posted by some of our fodorites that snapped it at night are wonderful. I forget the name of the last one this week. anyone?

Robespierre

It's a magnificent design, but its juxtaposition to the ancient buildings makes it look like aliens were involved somehow.

nbodyhome

I think it's beautiful at night! Our photos on my site aren't the best of the Louvre, in April I'll do better. We did the Fat Tires bike tour and it was wonderful to bike around the courtyard after dark.

cigalechanta

nbodyhome, you were the one whose photos I mention! Thanks

RufusTFirefly

I think it looks pretty bad among the more traditional looking buildings. And it was very hot under there when we went thru.

P_M

When the Eiffel Tower was first built the Parisians didn't like it. They said it looked like the skeleton of an unfinished building. Of course today nobody can imagine Paris without it. I think the pyramid will grow on everyone with time.

Dukey

They actually wanted the Eiffel Tower torn down...imagine what would happen today if someone tried to do so.

ira

>I think the pyramid will grow on everyone with time.<

Like that other monstrosity, the Eiffel Tower.

In 50 years people will say that they can't imagine Paris without the Tour Montparnasse.

In 100 years the Grand Arche at La Defense will be respectable.

Bah! Phooey! Feh!


I think that of all of them, the Louvre pyramid is the most jarring and incongruous.

highflyer

I love the pyramid because it is jarring and incongruous. It is the extreme contrast in the architechture that appeals to me but even without the Louvre as a backdrop it is gorgeous.

If they'd tried to design something that 'fit' with the ancient buildings I imagine there would be more negative views as the direct comparison would offer more opportunity for criticism.

BTW, Kudos to nbodyhome for the stunning photos at night too!

RufusTFirefly

I guess most people can get used to just about anything.

highflyer

oops, sp re. architecture!

highflyer

Yes, RufusT. I think most people are adaptable. That's good, right?

ira

>I think most people are adaptable. That's good, right?<

Depends on what you are adapting to.

Viajero2

I think it is a horrendous eyesore.

There is something very French about the sleek design of the Eiffel Tower when placed against the background. However, the Louvre Pyramid (?) besides being a three-sided structure like the courtyard is in, has no connection whatsoever to the surroundings. This courtyard is meant to be pompous, pretentious and the placing of a huge glass pyramid in the midst of it DEFINITELY meets the definition of the "F" word--- FAUX PAU.

sallyjane3

I actually like the juxtaposition of the old and the new. It brings to mind the Parliment Building in Edinburgh across from Holyrood Palace. Makes you notice!