Word or phrase expressing [pretentiousness of intentional/efforted design]?
Solution 1:
You could use pompous as an adjective, or pompousness as a noun.
characterized by an ostentatious display of dignity or importance
http://www.dictionary.com/browse/pompous?s=t
In your examples:
the book's title The Setting Sun was often criticized for its pompousness.
or
the office design was widely scorned because of its pompous design.