WTC Towers: The Symbolic Power Of Architecture

Architecture represents powerful symbolic meanings. This article discusses the architecture of the World Trade Center Towers and the Pentagon and comments on why architecture is often destroyed for political purposes.

1 minute read

September 17, 2001, 8:00 AM PDT

By Abhijeet Chavan @http://twitter.com/legalaidtech


"It made a difference that there were two, and that they were identical in shape and sheathing. A single box would have been static, but the two together made a dynamic composition of forms in space. And those silvery columns, narrowly spaced to add structural strength to the facades, reflected the light in a way that, on certain evenings from the Jersey side, was sheer magic...Despite its huge size, the Pentagon cuts a low profile -- from almost any vantage point but a close-up view, the building actually doesn't look that big...In addition to being remarkably efficient, the five-sided shape cuts down the impression of size, and the designers broke up each of the long facades in simple but effective ways...Regrettably, destroying architecture for political reasons is nothing new. The more important and powerful its symbolism, the higher a building is likely to rank on the target list of a bitter foe."

Thanks to Abhijeet Chavan

Thursday, September 13, 2001 in The Washington Post

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog