In an insightful commentary by Boris Beck, published in Večernji list, the author explores the phenomenon of short lifespans in high architecture, emphasizing that many modern buildings are designed with a life expectancy of merely two decades. He cites the oldest building of the European Parliament in Brussels, which began construction in 1989 and experienced significant structural issues by 2012, leading to a costly restoration that began in 2022 at an estimated cost of 500 million euros. This example highlights not only the financial strain involved in maintaining these monumental structures but also raises questions about the longevity of modern architectural practices.

Beck further discusses the Canary Wharf area, once heralded as a groundbreaking financial district between London and Greenwich, noting that the Canadian Tower, completed in 2001, was recently shut down for a complete façade overhaul and installation updates costing one billion euros. He contrasts these high-profile constructions with cultural institutions like the National Museum of Modern Art in Paris, housed in the iconic Pompidou Centre, which has recently closed for five years for essential renovations involving asbestos removal and energy efficiency upgrades. These closures reveal a troubling trend where significant cultural spaces are rendered inactive due to the need for upkeep and modernization.

This trend implies broader challenges in urban planning and architectural design, questioning the sustainability and long-term viability of investments in iconic constructions. The article urges a reconsideration of how buildings are designed and maintained, especially in light of their rapid obsolescence and the immense costs associated with their preservation. Beck's observations serve as a critical reflection on the architectural priorities of modern cities, suggesting a need for strategies that ensure structures are built to last, rather than succumb to the pressures of technological and aesthetic evolution.