INTRODUCTION: Exploring the Best in Cities
It's not that I don't like nature. I do. A beautiful High Sierra trail, a cascading stream, Anza Borrego desert blooms are all breathtaking. But, I like many things urban, too. An Art Deco theatre, beautiful streetscapes, the soft light of well-placed street lights are to be cherished.
Ever since this Southern California boy went to Spain his junior year of college, I was hooked on all things urban. Why couldn't the US create lively streets and public spaces like Europe? Cars are great but can they coexist with people places? What parts of our built environment are worth preserving? I've been trying to answer these questions for several decades and this blog will document part of that quest. Each month (or more) I will post my observations and photos on specific urban topics ranging from certain cities to specific urban elements such as plazas, street signs and architectural styles. I look forward to your comments.
The photos below will give you an introduction to some of the topics I will explore.
San Luis Obispo's Freemont Theatre is a wonderful example of Art Deco architecture. And those neon lights are killer! |
Street signs can do a lot to create a sense of identity for a city. They are fairly cheap and more cities, like Ventura (pictured here), should consider their potential. |
LA Chinatown's historic plaza is a great example of well-defined urban space. |
Have you noticed that many shopping centers are doing a better job providing people with comfortable places to sit? Here's the central plaza at Santa Monica Place. |
Banners add color and rhythm to the streetscape and highlight key city events and themes. |
Street fairs and Saturday markets are a wonderful way to combine good food and sociability - a brief and stimulating way to reclaim the street from cars. |
Public art adds a special touch to town centers. It looks like Brea does have a good sense of timing. |