July 2011 | Eyesore

Architectural Abortions from the USA and Around the World (And Sometimes Other Miscellany Infecting the Landscape)

Presenting the Lamar Building, Augusta, Georgia. The original Beaux Arts structure dates from 1913. The "penthouse" was added in the 1970s – designed by eminent architect I.M. Pei. Thanks to correspondent Tom Tomaka for sending. He writes: "Yesterday while visiting Augusta, GA I stumbled out of dinner and thought I was suffering the effects of too many Rob Roys.... If it was already so classic and impressive, why did they put a helmet on it?"

Well, Tom.... because America IS Darth Vader!