Green Central Blog

by Lucia Athens

Many of you have probably already seen the gorgeous photos that were published in the Metropolis Magazine article in the June 2009 issue. If not, check it out. Of course, it has a LEED Platinum rating (how could it not?). I had the pleasure of visiting there as part of a Green Building Certification Institute Board of Director’s Meeting, where I serve as a Board member.  The words that come to mind when I think of the aesthetic of the office are “sleek” “cool” and “eco-hip”

The vibe is retro mid-century modern crossed with a bit of high tech laboratory chill.  The entry areas make an immediate impression, with classic Eero Saarinen chairs in bright candy colors. The juxtaposition with a huge logo wall encased in salvaged wood creates a warmer feel. The wood is sweet gum that was recovered from the bottom of a river in Tennessee.  The depth of mud it was buried in determines the color variation. Sweet!

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by Andy F.

 I’m sure a lot of us are getting ready to head into the wilderness for the Labor Day weekend. I’m itching to get out to Leavenworth for a few days of camping and river tubing. And while I love being up in the mountains there is nothing like being in the city. So, as a parting note before my venture in the Cascade Mountains, I will leave you with my top 3 (illustrated!) list of reasons why I love the city.

#1: Being able to walk to the grocery store.

Nothing beats the sheer convenience of having a supermarket just a few blocks from home. Sure, I’m not a big fan of carrying those 12-packs of soda three blocks back to my apartment, but it’s a small price to pay for what’s probably the best urban amenity.

#2: Community spirit and shared ownership.

When you live in the city you have a lot less personal space. We all have to share the sidewalks, the parks and the restaurants that function as our de facto living rooms. I love living in the city because of the respect that urban dwellers have for each other and their shared spaces. The mural shown in this picture, recently painted on a building in my neighborhood, is just one example of people taking it on themselves to make their urban environment a better place for themselves and their neighbors.

#3: Street vendors.

Ok, this one I picked because I’m really hungry right now. But I also think that street vendors are an amazing, essential and often overlooked aspect of city living. Besides being a convenience (especially for you night owls) they also provide unique opportunities both in terms of food access and economic development. What easier way to get healthy food into underserved neighborhoods or help someone start a business with minimal start-up capital? Major supermarkets are great, but I think we’ve relied on them too much and it’s time to think more seriously about the role street vendors can play.