re: Why is Architecture so Bland Today?

It’s a combination of several factors. Code and zoning regs play a big role (especially in multi-family), and then if you tell an owner or investor that they can build a pretty building for $10m or a an ugly one with the same functionality for $7m, they are choosing the cheaper option every time.

Buildings are basically functioning businesses in themselves, and the vast majority are financed based on their cost and expected cash flow. Like any other product on the market, producers are trying to optimally balance cost and cash flow. You don’t do that by adding a lot of extra detail, unfortunately.