[QUOTE="cplchanb, post: 1182413, member: 7667]
Any other theories to throw on the table?[/QUOTE]
I would guess it is a desire to keep it simple and express the overall design concept, letting the general impression sink in, without complicating matters with detail.That's a common and universal approach used by architects and designers, and it's good wisdom. It's amazing how much simple white blocks can convey.
My fear, however, is it may be a sign that ML's architects have experience with public spaces, but have never seen or thought through the specifics of catenary. Further down the road, the engineers will look at all the support points needed to hang catenary, and the weight bearing requirements, clearances, etc.... and suddenly the pillar spacing changes, or something. Worst case, there are change orders in construction that are costly and ugly. I pointed out the cleaning/bird issues ..... operability and maintainability also need to be proven. You won't have a guy on a stepladder cleaning the beams or changing light bulbs with the catenary energised
Catenary is such an overwhelming visual feature. You have to add it before you can be sure the design works. Same with signage, etc.... you may not know the specifics of the design, but where will the signs be and how much will they break up the visual lines etc. MBTA logos are better than having no signage ;-)
If ML wants to brag about its 'design excellence', they need to deliver the full package bafore anyone weighs in. Intent is not results, and this design is still high level.
- Paul