I.M. Pei’s Louvre Logic

Regarding David W. Harlowe’s letter (July 19) on the Paris Louvre expansion by I.M. Pei: The criticism of the pyramid entry designed to provide access to the two wings of the Louvre was thoroughly covered at the opening several years ago and applauded by the Parisians once they discovered the logic of choice to visit either wing. The incidental joys of the underground facilities such as cafeterias, toilet rooms, bookstore and a host of administrative spaces were not a “vast maze of intimate rooms stuffed with art” since the expanded hanging spaces for art were provided by the old Louvre wing vacated by the Finance Ministry and moved to a new building in the Bercy District.

True, the steam cleaning of the courtyard buildings was beneficial to the nighttime illumination of the courtyard. But those who have seen this ensemble at night with the pyramidal jewel brightly lit will never forget the transformation to a fairyland.

Don’t worry about I.M. Pei. UCLA’s medical facility just maybe can be treated to art.

EMIEL BECKSY

Architect

Los Angeles