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When talking about architecture, there's a fine line between creative and ridiculous. Bold and funny. Tasteful and appalling. And when a project crosses it, people often notice. And shame it.

Ugly Dutch Houses is an Instagram account that does just that. Radiating a similar vibe as its Irish and Belgian "cousins", this online project shares photos of structures that it believes to deserve the demolition crane. Or at least a good makeover.

And it's quite thirsty, too. "I will look for you, I will find you and I will post you," the bio of the Insta says. Liam Neeson approves!

More info: Instagram

#1

This House Could Appear On Your Geometry Test

This House Could Appear On Your Geometry Test

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An Co
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would totally BUY that house. Seems great. Elevated so no flood risk. Concrete so it is 'green' (no air leakage). Easy to describe to the pizza guy.

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Preparing a piece about a Facebook group dedicated to architecture shaming, my colleague Jonas spoke about what separates good and bad design, the need to democratize the access to quirky private property designs, as well as about the roles that architecture plays with an expert in the field from Sweden who has a background in urban planning. 

The urban planner explained to Bored Panda that while public spaces must meet safety and accessibility standards, aesthetic standards can be much more fluid for buildings.

"Most of the time, the elements of the built environment should be in harmony amidst each other and with the surroundings. However, sometimes, something bolder and out-of-the-box might form an engaging contrast," she said. However, the expert added that, in her personal opinion, our built environments have to engage us, as well as stimulate our minds and senses. In fact, she believes that architecture’s ability to make us think is one of its most powerful aspects.

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Which, you have to admit, these Dutch houses accomplish with ease.

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    “There are circumstances where the architecture should create a sense of calmness and safety, yet there are instances in which it is not bad if the architecture provokes us and makes us think, ‘Why don't I like the look of this building?’”

    The urban planner said that we should give people the freedom to express themselves as they wish when it comes to designing their private property. As long as they have the means, nearly everything is allowed, in her opinion. Just like we're allowed to have an opinion on their 'experiments' too!

    #5

    The Pope's Ugly Dutch Vacation Home

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    #6

    It's Very Hot In Holland So It's An Appropiate Time To Post An Ugly Dutch House On Water!

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    The Architect Dropped A Cube Of Green Soap And Suddenly He Had A Vision

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    Malka de Lange
    Community Member
    3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is naar my house and I've always been so curious about it. All the other houses around it are the regular style you'd expect here. This one sure stands out

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    “Quirky architecture comes from our innate desire to demonstrate our [own] uniqueness. However, not everyone who has the means has an average taste for aesthetics. Yet, as long as it is for the people who inhabit or use their private space, I mean why not?” she told Bored Panda that as long as you’re not actively harming anyone else with how bad your designs are, you should be able to be as unique as you want. Even if it falls short of objective aesthetic standards.

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    #8

    When Your Architect Wasn't As Sharp As He Used To Be When Finishing The Construction Plans

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    #10

    Yes, This Is A House. Yes, People Actually Live Here And Yes, The Windows Weren't Even Placed Symmetrically

    Yes, This Is A House. Yes, People Actually Live Here And Yes, The Windows Weren't Even Placed Symmetrically

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    #12

    Error 404: Windows Not Found

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    #13

    If You Think This Is Complex Then Wait Until You Hear Their Alarm Code

    If You Think This Is Complex Then Wait Until You Hear Their Alarm Code

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    Otter
    Community Member
    3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I might like that place. Okay, I might like it from the inside...

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    #14

    The Egyptians Are Taking Over

    The Egyptians Are Taking Over

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    #16

    The Color Red Is Often Associated With The Word 'Stop'... I Rest My Case

    The Color Red Is Often Associated With The Word 'Stop'... I Rest My Case

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    Caro Caro
    Community Member
    3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And then you get an ugly front door too. Just to top it off..

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    #17

    If You Go Through The Front Door, You'll Meet Bowser

    If You Go Through The Front Door, You'll Meet Bowser

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    Yoinks!
    Community Member
    3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not sure I'd ever go through that door. Are those bricks actually collapsing, or is it just a 'clever' effect?

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    #19

    From Holland With Love

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    #20

    When You Decide Last Minute That You Don't Want Your House Shaped Like A Triangle

    When You Decide Last Minute That You Don't Want Your House Shaped Like A Triangle

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    keepgoing
    Community Member
    3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This could have been done afterwards. Many people add a dormer roof/window for more space,

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