Architect Matúš Dulla / Decoration once featured Saint Ladislaus fighting the Cumans. Today, they are huge advertising screens
Architect Matúš Dulla discusses the public's aversion to modern architecture and the debate over returning to decorative elements in design.
Matúš Dulla, an emeritus professor at the Faculty of Architecture and Design at STU and the Faculty of Architecture at ČVUT in Prague, is an expert on the history of 20th-century Slovak architecture. In a recent discussion, he reflected on why modern architecture is often disliked by the public, linking this aversion to the scale and design of contemporary buildings. Dulla mentions the controversial Tatracentrum building in Hodžovo Square, which faced criticism for its modernist design, leading some traditionalists to label it "an eyesore." He defends the building by explaining how it adapts to its surroundings with its four distinct facades, showcasing a blend of modernist principles with contextual sensitivity.
In his analysis, Dulla considers the role of ornamentation and decorative elements in contemporary architecture. He suggests that the lack of these traditional features in modern designs may contribute to public discontent. The discussion raises important questions about the architectural trends in Slovakia and whether returning to more decorative styles could enhance the acceptance of modern structures.
Overall, Dulla’s insights reflect a broader debate in architecture about balancing modernist ideals with community preferences for aesthetic and cultural relevance. The conversation highlights ongoing tensions between preserving historical integrity and embracing innovative design, as well as the importance of contextual architecture in the face of rapid urban development.