Architecture in my mind.

Recently, it seems like everywhere I go there is something else drawing me into architecture and design. My girlfriend flies back from Toronto,snags the Enroute AirCanada magazine, and there just happens to be an article on design and Canadian architecture. I grab today's DOSE and there is an article about pre-fab sustainable housing. It's surrounding me! Metaphorically, although if great design and sustainable housing surrounded me literally I wouldn't complain.

One of the things I have been thinking about lately is how most North Americans long for Europe. In longing for it, what I believe people are after is the architecture, and the public spaces. They have the ability to inspire, comfort and bring people together. Personally, I am most drawn to the parts of the city where there is vibrant street life, and the buildings have character. While Coal Harbour, for example, is beautiful place naturally, the architecture is repulsive. It's cold and uninspired. What ALL cities need more of is unique architectural projects, public art and design, and great spaces for people to congregate and be together.

With an increased emphasis, and mainstream acceptance of the importance of interesting architecture and design, our cities, and pockets within them that need it will get a much needed facelift. I for one would love to see the area east of Gastown along Alexander rejuvenated into something brilliant.