Readers Criticize Trump's Proposed Triumphal Arch in Washington DC

Readers on Dezeen have expressed strong criticism of updated plans for a triumphal arch in Washington DC proposed by US President Donald Trump. Designed by architecture studio Harrison Design, the arch was first proposed in October 2025 to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary. The structure would be situated across the Potomac River from the Lincoln Memorial. Commenters described the design as "hideous," with one noting "the quality of the renders" reflects compromised professional standards. Another reader suggested the winged angel atop the arch should be replaced with a statue of Trump, while others argued the monument belongs in Las Vegas or Atlantic City. Some saw it as a missed opportunity for creative architectural innovation. In other discussions, readers debated a Victorian terrace house extension in London by Goldstein Heather, with reactions ranging from "exquisite" to "contextually abysmal." A riverside apartment block in France by Nicolas Laisné Architectes, designed to resemble a ship and offering co-living spaces, received mostly positive feedback, though some criticized its urban planning impact. Dezeen's weekly comments update highlights these architectural debates from April 2026.