Indeed, there is a lot to like here. I personally am not loving the gridded resolution of the mechanical and amenity penthouse and crowning fins but that's a minor qualm.
I wonder if those who don't appreciate what aA's delivers are simply misunderstanding the position upon which I and others stand. For me (at least), it's less about conceptual perfection than technical competence (though I thoroughly enjoy Peter and the firm's hand whenever I see something new).
Look at the detailing in Interchange's photos: minimization of spandrel and unnecessary floor-to-floor coatings providing a better connection between exterior cladding and interior living environment; an interplay of materiality which hints at a deeper understanding of where to place more and less expensive components, a simple parti guiding the whole composition, etc, etc, etc...
If other firms in this city were more...competent...then perhaps yes, aA (and some others) might have a tougher run for the praise they (clearly) earn. As it stands however, the lazy 'design' and embarrassing execution of far too many projects in this city is evidence of design and development culture that is not only aesthetically myopic, but clearly more-focused on an easy profit rather than architectural (and there's a lot to that term) excellence.
