BOOK REVIEW: Bianca Bosker’s New Book, Original Copies, Dissects China’s Bizarre Knockoff Architecture Trend

Last week, many Gowanus residents were outraged to find out that the city has approved the first stage of a plan to turn the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/index.php?s=gowanus">Gowanus Canal</a> into a Venice-like tourist area. The hope is that the new mini neighborhood, dubbed "Little Gowanice", will generate enough revenue to offset the millions needed to clean up the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/epa-says-gowanus-canal-clean-up-could-cost-504-million/">heavily-polluted superfund site</a>. According to Chinese architecture firm Duplitect, Little Gowanice would feature a main canal (which would be a restored and renovated version of the current waterway) as well as several smaller offshoot canals leading right into the heart of the neighborhood. Tourist attractions would include gondola rides, Venice-themed eateries and a "Tunnel of Love" ride.

Last week, many Gowanus residents were outraged to find out that the city has approved the first stage of a plan to turn the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/index.php?s=gowanus">Gowanus Canal</a> into a Venice-like tourist area. The hope is that the new mini neighborhood, dubbed "Little Gowanice", will generate enough revenue to offset the millions needed to clean up the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/epa-says-gowanus-canal-clean-up-could-cost-504-million/">heavily-polluted superfund site</a>. According to Chinese architecture firm Duplitect, Little Gowanice would feature a main canal (which would be a restored and renovated version of the current waterway) as well as several smaller offshoot canals leading right into the heart of the neighborhood. Tourist attractions would include gondola rides, Venice-themed eateries and a "Tunnel of Love" ride.