In this week's comments update, readers can't decide whether the Hoxton Press towers, by Karakusevic Carson Architects and David Chipperfield Architects, look new or retro. 

In with the old: the hexagonal towers in London's Hackney are built from brick in two different shades. Some readers think they offer something new, while others suggest they're a blast from the past.

"Looks outdated already," lamented Yousif El Helw.

Jean-Yves Rehby agreed: "So, we're doing post-post-post neo-brutalism? 1989-is-backism? Sorry, but I'm not particularly impressed."

Not everyone feels the same, including Chris: "Really like these buildings, beautiful details, lovely plans, and I suspect living there will be a delight. More Chipperfield in London please."

"Praise the lord for David Chipperfield," added British Card.

One commenter especially liked the floor plans:

What do you think of Hoxton Press? Join the discussion ›

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Judgement day: reader sympathy for Patrik Schumacher – who launched a high court bid to control the late Zaha Hadid's £70 million estate – has grown, since documents revealed the executors of Hadid's estate tried to have her name removed from the practice.

"On the first story about this legal dispute, I had some pretty nasty words about Schumacher. I'm surprised that he seems completely in the right here," said Jacob Volanski.

A shocked Michael Wigle sought clarification: "So Hadid signed a will stating that Schumacher should control her firm and people who personally dislike him want to violate that legal contract. Is that correct?"

Sir Fex went on: "For once I think Schumacher should have his way on this. These other executors seem to be onto something useless for the firm."

"Greed greed greed. Why can't we all get along?" asked an exasperated Bill Barker.

This reader had more positive aspirations for the firm:

Who do you think is in the right? Join the discussion ›

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Winter wonderland: Tham & Videgård Arkitekter has revealed designs for a prefabricated housing scheme in Gothenburg named Vertical Village II, which many commenters have likened to something out of this world.

"It feels like a fairytale!" exclaimed Kirsten Rossi.

Spadestick felt similarly, saying: "Perpetual Christmas!"

"The fog shrouds and I'm a little kid again," elaborated Patrick Kennedy.

"Love it", applauded Zea Newland. "It's very modern but still has the quality of cozy old towns. Architecture for humans not for investors."

This reader made a different comparison:

Would you like to live in Vertical Village II? Join the discussion ›

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Against the grain: readers have been left baffled after engineers at Columbia University 3D-printed a block of "digital wood", crafted from resin. The block is modelled on an olive wood sample and boasts a replica grain pattern.

"Why? Is there something wrong with real wood?" quizzed Jay C. Whitecloud.

A frustrated Mister Wu continued: "And yet another impressive textured plastic. Some people have only ever seen wood only on a smartphone screen therefore aren't ashamed to name this '3D printed wood'."

"Impressive! It really looks like real plastic!" added Kat Sudon sarcastically.

"And smugly ugly to boot," replied Patrick Kennedy.

This reader gave it the thumbs up though – at least for now:

Are you impressed by the 3D-printed wood? Join the discussion ›

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