White elephant
The abandoned Olympic Softball Stadium, built for the 2004 games in Athens. (Photo taken in November 2018.)
'White elephant' is a term typically associated with something that is very expensive but not useful and which cannot be easily disposed of. It originates from a tradition in Southeast Asia in which monarchs kept white elephants that could not be used for practical tasks due to their sacred nature.
The term white elephant became popular during the 1800s in Western society. It was applied to possessions that were expensive but did not serve the purpose for which they were purchased.
In modern times, it is often used to describe buildings or building projects that are extremely expensive both to undertake and maintain, and that may not achieve their original intent. It can also refer to large real estate developments that are no longer profitable.
White Flint Mall, located in the wealthy suburbs of Washington, DC, opened in 1977. As retail habits changed, stores within the mall closed and abandoned the property, leaving it mostly vacant. Demolition of the 850,000-square-foot (79,000 m2) structure began in 2015, and the last remaining tenant, Lord & Taylor closed on 2 August 2020.
Former Olympic parks are commonly described as white elephants, as are other sports facilities, defunct retail outlets or large industrial or manufacturing sites. Some infrastructure projects eventually turn into white elephants if public demand is low or the structure becomes obsolete by the time the project is completed.
The 'Unusual buildings' article includes examples of weird and wonderful projects - some of which might literally be considered white elephants
|
|
|
|
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.