Cities and Onions

                  Which has more layers? Cities or Onions? Rem Koolhaas once said that “Manhattan represents the apotheosis of the ideal of density per se, both of population and of infrastructure; its architecture promotes a state of congestion on all possible levels, and exploits this congestion to inspire and support particular forms of social intercourse that together form a unique culture of congestion.” Prior to recent advancements in technology cities were complex in plan but relatively simple in section. They could only build so much using primitive construction techniques. However, in 1978 Koolhaas insisted that the apotheosis of the ideal density was reached then. As we continue to advance both in time and in technology, we will soon find new layers to add to our current density.

                At what point do we as architects decide that the built environment in a particular area has reached its highest potential. Is it where at each point of a city that there is a connection made? Is it when there is no longer room for the obvious improvement? Or where we no longer make decisions based on the social needs of users? Seeing the direction in architecture is heading, I believe that the apotheosis of density has yet to be reached. With new advancements in design and technology happening every day, more cities are growing layers. Both by connecting infrastructure and people.