Sheraton's new look
The Sheraton (previously Intercontinental) hotel Building, built in the 60's, is a landmark of Dhaka. Built in the modernist architectural style prevalent at that period it was a building of elegant proportions and character. It has now sprouted an extension which has disfigured it for life. This extension is not only insensitive, it is cruel. It seems that the designer approached this work with a vengeance as if he or she had a grudge against the original building.
Sensible societies have educated bodies who decide if important buildings or buildings (or modifications to them) in important locations are suitable from the aesthetic and environmental point of view even after the design has been granted planning permission. For example, the UK has the Royal Fine Arts Commission, New Delhi has the Urban Arts Commission. These are to protect the visual and environmental quality of the city. Such bodies are composed of architects, engineers, artists, poets etc. Dhaka should have had one long time ago and there is still time.
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