Baltimore’s Harborplace deserved an open international design competition

In the history of any city, there are a few pivotal moments that will define the urban landscape for generations to come, for better or for worse. Opened 43 years ago as a symbol of Baltimore’s revitalization, few projects have had more significance in Baltimore’s modern history than Harborplace. Its impending rebirth has been awaited anxiously by all who care about our city. The new renderings of Harborplace have prompted the full spectrum of reactions, from ubiquitous political cheerleading to pointed design critiques from UDAAP (the Urban Design & Architecture Advisory Panel) and members of the architectural community.