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Why does Britain always settle for mediocrity. The aquatic venue could have been truly spectacular and trumped all previous olympic venue designs. However, politics have got involved and 'legacy' has resulted in this design being somewhat stripped of it's integrity and inspired vision.The interior still has a beautiful sculptural quality to it and is more artistic than say the Beijing 'water cube's'which is less architectural but more gimmicky. I'm sure the athletes will find it a beautiful environment to swim. However, the exterior looks a mess - why obscure Hadid's wave like main structure with two 'sticky outy bits'. This venue is the stadium equivalent of the F.A cup (two big handles equals two big temporary stands). Whilst the venue might be sufficient why couldn't Londons Olympic organisers show more ambition - Quality has been compromised for 'legacy'.