dominance aggression

The term Dominance Aggression is usually used in behavioral problem in dogs. In normal context, this is seen as behavior by an animal that asserts its dominance over another or a human, such as competing for food, resisting control measures, or assuming dominant postures. What is all this about Guido? What have this got to do with Architecture? Yet another Guido's random rambling?

Well, not at all you self-loathing critical readers! I came across this idea last week when I happen to notice a particular well-known project Architect that follows this symptom. So, I wonder whether this problem has a widespread implications in our professional industry. To help understand this problem, I shall explain its context in dogs and mirror it with my fellow human Architect/s. Shall we start?

Most dogs (Architects) are content to let people (Senior Partner/Directors) be in charge. As puppies (Students / Juniors), they quickly learn to look to us (Senior / Lead) to let them know what we (Senior / Lead) want them (Students / Juniors) to do. Some dogs (Architects) seem to have a harder time with this. A dominantly aggressive dog will consistently growl, snap, or bite when a person does something, or asks the dog to do something, which the dog (Architects) does not like. This is different than a dog (Architect) that is assertive or pushy, but will obey a firm command. This is also not the same situation as a dog (Architect) which has been pushed beyond her limit by cruelty or pain. A dominantly aggressive dog (Architect) has an inappropriate response to normal situations. The dog (Architect) is trying to control the situation with her reaction, rather than allowing a person to have control.

These dogs (Architects) may be protective over food (Food) or toys (Toys & Money), or favorite sleeping areas (Flat, House, etc). They may react if they are groomed (Office Culture), or if you stare (Office Red Tape) at them, or if they are punished (Displinary). In the beginning, the problem usually only occurs at certain times, for example, if you disturb your dog while she is eating (Lunch / Dinner / Coffee Break). Then it begins to occur more often, when you move to place the leash (Senior looking) over her head, or tell her to get off of the sofa, etc. The problem is not the situation, but the issue of control. Yelling, or physical correction such as scruffing, rolling the dog over, or 'hanging' the dog by her collar or choke chain (displinary action or internal corporate culture) are not appropriate or effective form of discipline, and will only make matters worse. These attempts to 'show the dog who is boss' may challenge the dog (Architect) to be more aggressive, may injure and do nothing to teach a more appropriate behavior in place of aggression.

What can be done to stop this aggressive behaviour? Neuter the bastard, I'd say!!

sensual feline continues...

Andromeda Chained to the Rocks was painted by Rembrant to represent his first full length mythological female nude history painting and is taken from a story in Ovid's Metamorphoses. In the story, an Ethiopian princess was chained to a rock to be sacrificed to a sea monster as a punishment for her mother's boasting that tormented the Ethiopian people. Unlike many other artists that depicted this story by showing Andromeda, her rescuer Perseus, and the sea monster all in the same composition; Rembrandt's shies away from classical conventions by showing her not as a glamorous beauty but as a frightened naturalistic looking girl. He didn't include any other figures except for her alarmed look out of the picture space to the right creates narrative tension. The painting is an example of Rembrandt's rejection of idealized beauty. Since he did not believe true beauty existed naturally, he painted women as he saw them; naturally imperfect and flawed.

connection needed

Postural Integration, Horizontal Integration, Vertical Integration,

VI: absorption into a single firm of several firms involved in all aspects of a product's manufacture from raw materials to distribution.

HI: absorption into a single firm of several firms involved in the same level of production and sharing resources at that level.

PI: s an alternative process-oriented, body-therapy method which supports individuals in dealing with the challenges in their lives in a more creative manner.

one, two, three

It’s a common misconception that naturally beautiful models take naturally beautiful photographs. The truth is—without modelling poses and modelling tips, perfect photographs are harder than you think.

If you are a professional model, a photographer will most likely guide you through a variety of model poses throughout the photo shoot. But if you are an inspiring model and are still working your way up to the top—you may have to control your poses to ensure great headshots and sample modelling photographs.

Live show models, promo models, photographic models, and runway models all rely on professional model poses to succeed. Whether you aspire to appear in print magazines or fashion shows and Hollywood movies; if you want to be a model, pay special attention to this insider guide to modelling poses.

Breathe
Although sometimes concentration enhances a good photograph, obvious concentration can distract and often ruin a good photograph as well. Do not hold your breath for a modelling pose; always remember to breathe and appear at ease.

Posture
Bad posture is an unrecognized flaw in many people. However, for models, posture is a harmful flaw. Always remember to keep your back straight and your shoulders up. Slouching affects the mood of the photograph and enlarges the appearances of your stomach. In addition to your back and shoulders, always remember to flex your stomach muscles. Despite your weight or state of shape, your abdomen will appear more toned if you flex.

Limbs
Symmetry is officially out in the modeling world. When posing, make sure to differentiate your arms and legs with asymmetrical poses. If you have one arm long and straight by your side, make sure the other arm is bent. Whether a big or small angle, the bend will make the modelling pose look more real, less artificial. Continue the asymmetry to your legs. If one leg is locked straight, give the other leg a casual bend.

Camera
Although the camera is the ultimate focal point of a modelling photo shoot, great models do not look directly into the camera. To enhance the quality of your photo shoot, look away from the camera with a mix of head and eye poses. Looking off to the right or left side, or tiling your neck to either side can help you avoid direct eye contact with the camera. In many cases, your head and neck can remain stationary in your modeling pose—and your eyes can do all the work. Head and eye positions, coupled with personable facial expressions make for great model poses.

Sitting Poses
If you are sitting down during your photo shoot—don’t think it’s ok to slack off. In fact, sitting photo shoots require a lot of extra work. If you are sitting down or reclining, it’s important to put your eight on the back of one thigh, rather than distributing your weight equally on both thighs. If you roll one hip up from the ground or surface, shifting your weight will be simple. This pose results in a slimming effect that you don’t want to miss out on.

Cleavage
To make sure your best assets shine, there are a few basic guidelines to follow. Based on two distinct poses, a forward lean and a backward lean, any model with any breast size can maximize cleavage. When leaning forward, either bring your arms together at your waist, keep your arms straight at the elbows and clasp your hands together below your waist, or simply cross your arms. When leaning backward, raise your arms about your shoulders and head, keep your arms apart, and always slouch for the best cleavage results.

Smile
If you have a naturally beautiful smile—show your pearly whites with pride, just not every time. If you smile in each modelling pose, modeling agents will notice your lack of versatility, not your smile. To add variety to your modelling poses, try switching up your smile with a cute frown, a bratty bout, a friendly laugh, or even an edgy scowl. Your facial expressions can make or break your modelling poses. Let your smile show, but make sure to show what else you can do.

In addition to these personalized tips for modelling poses, every model should be aware of the basics of posing. There are 4 main types of model poses: lifestyle pose, movement pose, portrait pose, and body pose.

Lifestyle
The lifestyle pose evokes a sense of everyday living with common body movements and facial expressions. Throughout the day, moments of happiness, love, anger, and hope arise. To succeed at the lifestyle pose, each model must be able to recreate these everyday emotions.

Movement
The movement pose captures a specific action, such as running or jumping. Because this pose is most often used for a marketing photo shoot—the model is used to promote a product. Each model must be able to smile and laugh when using the products in the photo shoot.

Portrait
This modelling pose emphasizes the face of the model—and relies purely on facial features. The model will be in modest makeup and relaxed hair and should pose with a casual, genuine smile. Many portrait photographs are close up and emphasize details of the model’s face. If you are scheduled for a portrait photo shoot, make sure to pay extra attention to your skin and drink at least 8-12 glasses of water a day.

Body
Full-length photographs require body poses. Models are encouraged to shift weight between hips and make arms and lengths into asymmetrical stances. Although many body poses do not require specific facial expressions, putting your entire body into character during full-length poses helps your body find a natural balance.

Keep these insider model posing tips in mind during your next professional model photo shoot to ensure you blow the photographer away. Whether you’re a trained expert or an ambitious beginner, all models have the ability to excel in photo shoots. Focus on your posture, attitude, and facial expressions to succeed beyond your wildest expectations.

messy messy me

As a contrast, I have decided to add the video above to discuss a rather serious topic in education, mainly art education. A strong arts education promotes the skills children need to be successful. Their exposure promotes self-directed learning, creative thinking, improves school attendance and sharpens critical and creative skills. In fact, several recent studies have concluded that the creativity and innovation utilized in the artistic process will be highly valued by employers.

Teachers are the first to point out how creative arts programs have strongly influenced their students' self-image and increased their academic success in the areas of math, science and the language arts. But sadly, during these difficult economic times, arts programs are the first to be sacrificed. In addition, in many schools where classroom space is limited, so called art 'studios' are now only contained in a cart that is wheeled by teachers from room to room, severely limiting the arts education students receive. In a community as diverse as ours, the arts serve as an essential bridge across language and cultural differences. They become the shared link that glue and shapes our understanding of how we see ourselves and each other.

grips

Why do women melt if they see you have big strong hands? Massage skills would be a bonus but it still doesn't answer the question apart from it being masculine. Any answer ladies? Anyway, some massage tips for you dudes and dudettes our there:

Massage the back with long smooth strokes along the spine. Most people equate massages with back rubs, so they'll expect this as part of the massage. It's great way to release tension in the spine and set the pace for the rest of the massage. Follow the back rub by massaging the buttocks. Rub the butt by using your elbow to stroke the hip, then move to the gluteus maximus. Do this gently at first, but increase pressure if your partner likes it.

For you ladies out there perform a complete massage on a male partner by having him lie face down on the bed or massage table. Straddle him with your legs to his sides. Keep your hands flat, and move them in circles on his back, and then move up to his neck and shoulders. Keep your hands well-lubricated with hot, scented oil. Knead your male partner's back, shoulders and neck with the flat of your thumbs. Massage his buttocks, legs and inner thighs using the kneading method, and then end with small circles. Turn him over and massage his face and chest.

It's slightly different while massaging the girls. Massage them while she's wearing her bikini or bra and thong. Rub her back and shoulders above the bra. Then undo the back of the bra and rub her neck. Knead her ankles, calves and legs with small circles, then turn her over and massage her breasts, nipples and stomach.

That's it folks. After that it up to you two for whatever extra-curricular activities that entails. My job is done.

Ps: I'm still trying to have big hands. Perhaps that's why the ladies aren't exactly running to me. Sigh!

friends are forever

Maintaining a successful fuck-buddy arrangement can be tricky, but the benefits are worth the effort. Being able to call on a girl you trust for some hot, noncommittal sex is a great thing indeed. However, once you’ve found the right girl, someone who is sexually adventurous and interested in unconventional relationships, how do you maintain the passion without making her feel used or slutty? What exactly is the etiquette?

Give Her Advance Call on Booty Call

You shouldn’t assume she’s available 24 hours a day whenever you want to get laid. Calling her at 2 a.m. as you stumble out of the bar is not the best idea. Etiquette will tell you that she’s not a last resort at last call. Come on chaps, give the girl a advance notice. Plus, if you’re messy drunk at every booty call, she may soon stop answering your calls. Plan ahead and show up at her door at a reasonable hour.

Built Up and Wind Down from Booty Call

You should always give the girl a little consideration. As such, you don’t have to immediately pull her into the bedroom every time you get together. Offer her a glass of wine and let her get comfy first. A little chitchat to help make the situation a little less tense wouldn't go amiss. Afterwards, let her take her time putting herself back together; she may want to shower, fix her hair or makeup. Don’t run as soon as the condom comes off if you’re at hers. Bad.

Come Prepared

Come with proper protection. Crash helmet, whip, blindfold, ropes, First-Aid kit or even the old fashion condom. Scout motto: Be Prepared.

Don't Pull Porn Moves on Her

Don't be tempted to take out your top 10 porn vids and watch it while you're with her. She may be more open to these acts than the average girl, but you shouldn’t spring these things on her without getting an idea of what she thinks about them.

BE DISCREET

If you happen to run into her on the street, don’t make your relationship to her obvious to everyone around you. Keep hands by your side. No grabbing her ass keeping the kisses on the cheeks. No innuendo or blatant sex talk.

if only these were true

• Hi, you're not late. Its my watch, its always fast.
• You look so sexy playing air guitar.
• Oh nice! You notice my breast.
• Oh no, if I wanted foreplay, I would have asked for it.
• That's ok. You'll remember my birthday next year.
• After sex, I'm out like a light.
• She meant nothing to you! Well, if you put it that way, I forgive you.
• Of course you can have some money for a lapdance.
• That's so funny! I collect comic books too.
• I could listen to you talk football all day.
• Can I ask you a question, can my friend join us?
  

Looking at the statements above, what a lame list. Ok ok, I've been late on a date before, I'll give you that but it wasn't by choice.

0-1.

I've never played air-guitar in front of a girl. Lame!

1-1.

Breast, yes of course.

1-2.

Who in the their right minds do not appreciate foreplay? Any guys who don't, don't deserve to have the woman beside them at all.

2-2.

Again another faux-pas, forgetting birthdays. Never to be done.

2-2.

Konk-out right after sex, that's just pathetic. Do people actually do this??

3-2.

This next one is a bit tricky, I've been in situations like this. It's never that straight forward.

3-3.

Borrowing money for a lapdance just don't happen unless you're with an escort or your liberal sister.

4-3.

Too coincidental to happen when you're back-packing in India to meet a hot American beach babe with the same interest. In fact, the idea of a Californian girl roughing it out just simply doesn't exist.

5-3.

No women, I'll repeat, NO WOMEN will ever listen to you babbling about how impeccable Torres's hair or Ronaldo's abs look like. If you do, chances are you're gay.

6-3.

Threesome, Foursome, Group, Orgy? Been there, done that. There is women out there who are into it and they are not ugly as people will let you know.

7-3.

Final score: 7-3 to me. I win.

between aisle 4 & 5

Lynx Part Trois...

I did say to close friends that Waitrose, M&S or Sainsbury's are the best places to get a date. Did they listen? No. Will they listen now? Probably. Too late chaps. The market is saturated now.

kidnapped

Yet another Lynx ad... How many is many? When is it enough? 1, 2, 3, 5, 8 or 15?

The ample busts and bums, the never ending legs, the wavy locks, the curled eye lashes, the pouting lips, the 'Fuck Me' eyes are so irresistible. I'm only a man for God sake, we have limits! Poor chap, no wonder he's distraught. Once you've lived that life, to suddenly be pulled back to reality and spend his whole life around an 'inactive' woman - it must be terrible. My heart goes out to him.

Guido, it's only an advert!

coffee or tea sir?

For the next few posts till the end of the month I'll be looking back at previous Lynx adverts. Unless you've been living in the caves in Afghanistan for the past 10 years or so, I'm sure you'll be able to recall some of the classic moments. Why Lynx and not Architecture? Well, after spending 13/14 hours of Architecture, the thought of blogging about it after work is taxing. So, I now officially declare a free from any Architectural post here in Alcoholic Architect -at least until I've early of next month.

Adverse publicity has been generated by the product's advertisements for encouraging sexual promiscuity and sexism. Just imagine an 11 hour flight to Hong Kong on the Lynx jet. Forget about Virgin Atlantic, I might have to terminate my membership and loyalty card. Sorry Richard! For now, I have to contend with the excellent service on the Virgin Clubhouse lounge at Heathrow.

shapely shadows

'.....sex and love have become polarised through guilt. In such a context sex can achieve purification only through love. In the minds of the French middle classes, sex, even where love is absent, is a source of pleasure to which every human being has an inalienable right. This applies to women as well as men. Adultery is widely perceived as one of the principal components of marriage.' I suddenly thought of friends, family & aquiantances. All those unnecessary fights & grievance they endured. The words that was said that couldn't be taken back, the words
that should have been said & the words that couldn't be said. Far too much grief, is that what most relationships are all about?! I couldn't do that again, not again. Who made it a normality that relationships & pain come hand-in-hand? What's so confusing about love, sex, passion & desire? We make it far too complicated because of our own guilt. We are the harshest critic of ourselves.

'...that passion and desire should be accommodated within a marriage. You navigate your way through these emotions, treating your spouse as carefully as you can in the process. But on no account do you leave them' - How true!

i will not dignify that question with an answer

Affairs in the office are more common than what employers want to admit. When people start having sex in the office, they break all rules - high on sex and secrecy. Taking huge risks, both parties usually can't think straight, high on emotions and lust that reality is a distant memory. What I'm about to say might be an unfair statement but most of the times, when things go bad, the women usually get the short straw. This statement is confirmed from an acquaintance, a head-hunter in the city who said that if a woman fails to provide a convincing explanation for leaving her job, it always turns up that the affair with her boss went wrong. Also, the more junior the women, the more likely she'll come out as a loser.

Useful rules while having an affair; delete all texts/emails at once, set up special email address, use hotels close to the office but not the one your bosses will be having business lunch, no snogging in lifts (hidden camera), don't stand too close, don't stand too far, in fact better still, don't get caught.

The top 10 reasons why men have affairs include:

1. More sex (sometimes due to lack of sex in their relationship)
2. Sexual variety through different partners or different sexual experiences
3. Too boost their ego to feel special or still attractive to the opposite sex
4. For the thrill of the chase
5. Opportunistic sex (if the opportunity occurs, they can’t pass it up)
6. To sabotage their current relationship
7. Revenge (to get back at their partner for one reason or another)
8. A feeling of entitlement (the belief they are entitled because they work hard or are the bread winner)
9. Sexual addiction
10.To escape

when there is blood on the streets, buy property

It feels rather different now. Previous friends and aquaintances are further away and the boozed fulled gatherings are far in between. Sipping my Barolo in Artesian, Langham hotel, I can't help wonder if I had turn a wrong corner.

The people I meet now are different; the conversation lacklustre, their ideals are haphazard and their drive isn't on the high revs. Unchecked, it could rub off on me BUT I will not let that happend. Hugely successful people are of a different breed. Their focus are laser sharp, their commitment unwavering and the reason behind their choices aren't what you would expect. Unlike popular believe, personal monetary gratification aren't high up their list of importance.

People + Education + Contacts + Environment = Opportunity
Outlook + Focus + Articulate + Behaviour + Commitment + Determination = Opportunity
Hard Work + Making your own Luck = Opportunity

Opportunity x Opportunity x Opportunity + 100,000 hours of Hard Graft = SUCCESS!!

your move

Why is it so complicated? Why can't the path just be clear and sunny? Shouldn't walking down a new route be picturesque with the sun shining down on you? I can only wish. I am at a crossroad, one which would determine my movement for the next 2-5 years at the very least. Like all journeys, you have a choice of 2 different approaches, one of which would be a meticulously planned trip. Everything is laid down months in advance, maps bought and marked, hotels and travel arrangements booked, vaccinations taken, hiking boots broken in, lawyers having your up-to-date copy of the will and friends/family aware of your travel route. It may sound like a nightmare to some but executed properly, the journey would be a blissful experience. No hiccups and no nightmare scenarios. No drama.

For the adventurous, there is a different method of travelling. One that consists of a step-back approach to planning. A destination is chosen, a time scale is roughly considered, a vague budget is saved and the rest is played by ear. Unfortunately, nowadays not many people would consider such a plan because it would be a disaster especially to logical and methodical Architects. Too many variables, too many ways to fuck up. Too much drama.

I'm lucky to have travelled a lot in my lifetime and I've always been an organised traveller. But, this time, for some unknown reason, I've decided to take a road less travelled and not plan a single iota and this scares me. I have never gone through any journey with so little preparation that even a minimalist would call it insane. So, why am I doing it? Why does it feel like I should take this journey? Why does it feel so right?

The real shame in all this is the fact that I've slowly detached myself away from everything and everyone I know. Looks like my journey has already begun...

how much?!?!

Percentages are interesting. Mathematics is interesting. Numbers are interesting. We communicate through numbers. 1 > 0 and 1 < 100

GD: What do you think of the project so far?
MB: I'm not sure. Looking at the situation, where do you think we are at? 0 being its worst and 100 nailing it on the head.
GD: I reckon, 27%
MB: 27%!! Wow, that's kinda low. Don't you believe in the project?
GD: I do but I'm still unsure of the unknown variables. I would prefer the project brief to be tighter and I would like to know the budgets you're thinking of. What about you?
MB: I was thinking more in the lines of 52%.
GD: 52% eh? Are you sure?
MB: Second thoughts, I think 74% is a better assessment of the work.
GD: Well, in that case, I guess I better deliver the goods. I'll get the drawings to you by the end of the week, shall I?
MB: That would be great. Meanwhile, I'll get more information for you to work with. I need you to believe that this idea can work. If you need anything else, call me and I'll get my secretary to send you the information you need.
Thanks GD.
GD: Thank you!

You'll notice from the script above, especially dealing in Architecture, our most valuable lesson in conversing with clients is to control their expectations. There is nothing worse than a client with unrealistic expectations. Eventually, you'll get fucked and there is no one to blame but you. But if you're able to limit their hopes, the gratification after signing the finished project over is worth more than you can ever imagine for both you and your client.

Ego Trippin

It constantly comes to the attention of many outside of the architectural world that architects themselves live lives that lie far and away from that of the lehman. We are told that we exhibit fanciful ideals and have personalities that endear us only to the most astute and resolute people imaginable, sitting in or own little bubble, blissfully unaware of the true meaning of life... X-Factor and Ashley Cole's next phone bill... I beg to differ! The one thing life is about, is harbouring relationsips! Friends, foes and partners, we architects are the only people which can appreciate the true intricacies that make these factors all tick!, be it sexual or just social. "So what" you say?

Well, let me enlighten you (or the brain receptors that shout BORED). Take the architect and client. More often then not, the architect cannot chose the client. It is something which to effect 'happens'. But how? We are introduced (one way or another), we socialise to gain a rapour and we fight at all costs to keep things amicable. One wants a building on the cheap and the other wants money to live the dream! All this is in the hope of securing that big pay day and project that will 'change the world.' Real life relationships are much the same, but in replacing the 'making money and image' bit, its all about enjoying ones company and changing their personal world's as opposed to that big blue thingy-magig in that big black space.

Ok, this is simple, agreeable or down right ridiculous you may say...and your probably right, but lets introduce a bit of spice with this dash of ego trippin. What happens when alcohol is thrown in the mix? In the case of the architect and client, two things can happen..you get drunk, let slip this and that, eventually leading to you jeopardising any chance of you being able to introduce to the world your take on Koolhass' Delirious New York in that tiny village of Symondsbury, Dorset. However, if things go well, you could be beginning the evening with not enough change to pay for Boris Johnson's transport service and ending it with a piece of paper which appears to be a contract of some description, but on closer inspection could even be a receipt for that strip joint 'your' client kept pestering you to go to.

Minus the contract, real relationships are much the same. In a drunken stupor, you are eaqualy as likely to have made a new acquaintance, shared numbers and commented on eachother's pin striped shirts as you are to have begun the evening with some close, decent friends and ended it with revealing that your mate, (not necessarily to their face) of x amount of years is actually a c**t (cheers Stella!!), and quicker then you can say 'hangover' and 'pass me the bucket' you no longer discuss the intricacies of life with each other, of which were a vital part of your existence for the last couple of years until that final Jäger bomb the previous night. So you no longer talk? What to do? How? When? Where? Why? Second things first, you go find another one. Another client that you can try and rub up the right way or another friend to you use their shoulder as a leaning post.

Before I go off in a sulk, realising that I am in fact the equal to a vertical kebbab and apologies to those who at the moment thing far less of me then that, i would like to pass on a piece of my mind that could either change your life or make you remember that you have already been to Belgium and there is no need to go again. Forrest Gump once said (no, not "stupid is as stupid does" although this can be applied) that "Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get." In the case of us architects, we actually do know what you get, but we are to busy living and breathing architecture to do anything about it. If we step of those very high and unwieldy horse's maybe we could effect life more as opposed to being affected by it...

Oh, and another thing, to those who keep constantly giving your opinion on matters that are at close to other peoples hearts. STOP RIGHT NOW!! They either don't care or they do care but they subconsciously don't, thus your wasting your time and stopping will allow you to live longer, smoke less a finish that Gabion Wall detail you've been working on!!

sui caedere

A friend in the fashion world called me today to tell me the news. And when I heard it, I was speechless. I was shocked to hear about Alexander McQueen's death. So young, so 40 and so dead - what tragedy. I'm sure his latest collection will be sold out even before it hits the runway. Gucci group must be grinning from ear to ear, especially in our current economic climate. It may sound insensitive but I'm sure it's true. Suicide. Artist often do it, fashion designer and models certainly dabble in it, writers get very close to it and actors/actresses are infamous for it. In the creative world, it is de-rigueur to commit suicide. A final act of artistic defiance. A middle finger to life itself. And soon after the artist commits suicide, their works are elevated to such a high degree only the Gods can touch it. Obviously, the financial gains and immortality are not the only reason; mental disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, alcoholism (uh-oh!), drug abuse and schizophrenia have a significant role as well. All these undesirable circumstances contribute to the final act.

Which begs the question, why don't more Architects commit suicide? After all, our profession is littered with people all wanting to be immortal. To be remembered hundreds of years after their death and wish that their mediocre buildings will be honoured and celebrated as one of the greats. How shallow but true!

In my selfish opinion, if more Architects follow our other creative siblings, the world would be a better place. Gone are the opinionated, arrogant bastards and there will be new blood fresh from college all the time. For this idea to work there should be a government legislation stipulating that crap buildings built by the deceased will only remain standing for 3 years. After which, the building in question will be demolished and no trace should be left for the next project. This cycle of regeneration continues thus help revive the local environment and stop Architects creating pathetic spaces. It's a win-win situation for everyone. The public gets better buildings and the Architects are able to dispose their arch-nemesis without going to jail.

I chanced upon a graffiti in London about suicide (see above) - 'SUICIDE IS MANS WAY OF TELLING GOD. YOU CAN'T FIRE ME - I QUIT!'

coming soon to cinema's near you

Since I'll be away for a few days this week, my dear readers will be spared from the daily installation of my random mental farts. I can hear them saying 'Phew, what a relief!' There you go; I've put it out and said it. Anyway, we hope to be back and astound you with new materials from our 'research' in Spain. Maybe, even pictures of us behind the bar mixing cocktails for the locals. Who knows? It has been known to happen.

In case you are wondering what we looked like, I've decided to add the image (see above) from the film 'The Hangover' because it best describes the three of us physically, characteristically and mentally.

Details worth mentioning:
1. Toru is actually Japanese. I couldn't find an apt replacement.
2. Yes, we are all not in our 50's. We are in the range of 35 - 50 years.
3. Paolo always looks serious and constantly in deep thoughts.
4. And yes, I am slightly overweight.

evolved??

Today, I have decided to write a light-hearted post. While searching for a topic I happen to come across an illustration of mankind. I love the drawings so much that I want to share it with you readers. Without even looking closely, I can't help notice the 2 common theme; sex & war. Pleasure & pain. Yes, I know this weeks posts is rather sexual in nature. I can't help it, so shoot me! The bloody thing is on overdrive. My mind, I mean. Ha!Ha! We haven't changed much have we? Funny that. Curiously, I wonder whether there is an ounce of truth in...

The Architect Myth: Are they really creative, but stable?

Characteristics of an male architect:

Over-worked - Talks in metaphors - Reasonably happy / Just enough happiness - Usually married/dating/attached to a beautiful woman - Permanently attached to his mobile - Constantly reflecting on life - Customary affairs - Tendency to rebel and disturb a blissful family life - Neurotic - Immoral - Sceptical - Overweight - Bearded - Bald - Black frame spectacles

I am sure some of you would disagree with my overly generalising comment, so I thought it would be fun to play a game called 'Find the Architect'. Perhaps you'll be able to find a fairer description of yourself from the images above. As for me, I have a preference on who I'd like to be. Correct answer wins a price, anyone for a guess? Happy hunting and have fun!

I had a chat with the Brunette (ich will Deutsch lernen, können Sie mich unterrichten? Und wir lernen Spanisch zusammen. Ok?) last night and learned what had happened. I'm sure it was more difficult for her to say it than it is for me to hear it. Anyway, I'm glad of the transparency between us.