While this isn’t exactly reminiscent of  the famous doors of Dublin, the spirit of it I think is similar. What’s so remarkable about Dublin’s front doors is that each one is its own work of art in that it varies, if only slightly, from the doors surrounding it. This makes each person’s door have its own character, and makes the view of the city considerably more interesting to look at. That’s what I think is going on in this photo. The balconies are varied enough in color and size to make it so that the side of the building isn’t one uniform block, and it has the ability to catch the interest of those who pass by. I’d like to know who it was who designed this building, and their intentions being such a unique design. I would guess that this is built in a more modern part of the city, and in an area where the young in the city collect. Only because the colors used scream energy and vibrancy and I can’t imagine it being appealing to an older person who might enjoy more subtle beauty.  

Because, if you can, why not sit outside on a beanbag chair? Really, this is totally awesome.  It seems like a considerable amount of thought went into the set up. The pairing of bags together and placement of a handy beverage table between them suggest to me that this was part of an intentional plan to create a communal space outside; on bean bag chairs. Maybe this is more astounding to me than it should be, but it’s something I’ve never actually seen done in the states. The most I’ve seen for a seating area outside is a line of wooden or wrought iron benches scattered about in parks and college campuses. Unsurprisingly this isn’t conducive to people wanting to leave the comfort of their lazy boys inside and sit outside to breathe some unfiltered air. What the beanbag does is it makes it preferable to be outside and hang out in an open area.  

What I want to know is if this isn’t part of larger trend in the Netherlands to shape outside areas into communal forums. It would suggest a different set of priorities than a culture that spends most of its time surrounded by concrete walls, and stuck in 6×6 foot cubicles.

Advertisement