Article #1

This article discusses the effect increasing numbers of ‘big box’, e.g. portal frame warehouse structures are having on society. The writer being American uses the example of ‘Costco’, which is a chain store, very similar in style to our Bunning’s stores. He believes that these stores bring out the worst in people, making them aggressive, non-caring, ect. The theory is that there is no pleasure in shopping at these places because the architecture of the building is so bleak. They promote an in’n-out bargain rather than a pleasurable experience. Personally however, I really like going to Bunnings ect. because they have a good, 'more bang for your buck' feel, and the warehouse structures are fine, I mean they are economical, easy, simple, and they stand up!

A really interesting article, probably more so for archi’s.

Fragment:
..........Neither inside nor out, do any of the big boxes relate to the patterns of landscape or local culture around them. They're homogenized from sea to shining sea, which is another facet of the anonymity they radiate. And it's contagious. Since warehouse architecture slipped out of the warehouse districts and into retail and even residential neighborhoods, we've begun to accept the concrete box as a container for other kinds of activities: amusement centers, movieplexes, churches. Cheap, ugly and expedient has become the default mode. It's everywhere, so it must be OK...........

Full article here:
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/visualart/261002_architecture28.html