Reflections are only that, reflections, nothing more nothing less. Often these reflections are related to books I read, but occasionally also other things. These are often written very late, very fast, using notes from my mobile phone, so the grammar and spelling is horrible.
On my way to a meetings with Dan Gabaldon in DC to discuss the start of a joint project about urbanization I came across this sign.
Our meeting took place at an Indian restaurant further down to the left... not sure if that is important...
I like to carry around my camera (Canon PowerShot G9), even if most pictures are not "blog" pictures.
Almost as much as Gaudi impressed me I have to say that Dali disappointed me. Instead of being creative and ground breaking he felt like a child without thoughts or ethics. It felt as he was more a reflection of the time a creator of something new. Especially the way he treated animals made me feel really bad. Of course the phenomena of Dali is still fascinating and many of his paintings thought provoking, but I have carried a feeling that he had an agenda that he wanted to say something.
Two things happened in Barcelona. I got deeper respect for Gaudi, especially after visiting Casa Batlló. This is an absolute amazing building, finalized 100 years ago (built 1877 and remodelled in the years 1905–1907) it feels more modern than anything today.
The organic shape and reflection on human relation to nature (everything from ventilation to letting in the sun) make me think that this house should be seen as a role model for anyone building a house today. I believe that that the buildings (and especially those we live in) can be turned from the worst threat to the planet to the main driver that can deliver a resource efficient society. The question is where we will find the Gaudi of the 21st Century and those willing to pay for it?
It looks as if an increasing number of companies are now moving from just words to actually promise that they can deliver sustainability... 2008-2009 will be crucial as it will be up to us to ensure that we will not only see green washing and PR, but actual results (in money and nature).
How much money will companies earn and how much CO2 will they reduce? We need to start to see numbers very soon...
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