Loved the project. I do not think he is really showing his technical prowess here or the know-how of creating a responsive design. The idea is to help fine lost places in those photos. And that can only happen if one reaches a lot of people. HN is a good diverse group to do that.
Also, it really feels incredible to see how places have evolved over the times even when you have never really been to the place. Sometimes waiting isn't that bad. :)