Gensler's Stratos data center in Utah draws reader ire over environmental impact

Dezeen readers have reacted strongly to the Stratos Hyperscale Data Center in Utah, designed by Gensler. The complex, set to be one of the world's largest, will contain 60 data centers on a 10,000-acre site. Commenters raised concerns about heat island effects, water consumption, light pollution, and the project's overall necessity. Ken Steffes highlighted environmental consequences, while Danzee suggested underground placement to save on air conditioning. Erik Bergdahl called it 'evil, intrusive, ugly, unnecessary.' Utah_1, a local resident, worried about light pollution interfering with stargazing. Heywood Floyd noted the irony of complaining online. JZ resignedly commented, 'Welcome to our brave new world, I suppose.' Separately, readers discussed MAD's Hainan Science Museum in Haikou, China, with mixed reactions: some praised its graceful form and hopeful feel, while others criticized it as 'highway architecture.' Also debated was a floating community space in Copenhagen by Arcgency and MAST, with praise for its contextual pertinence and criticism of 'redundant' timber supports.