"LOOKS LIKE THE KINDA PLACE FAIRIES REALLY WOULD LIVE!"
Abstract:
This paper presents observations from a recent study tour of the south west of the United States. It attempts a tentative classification of urban forms in which consumption - particularly of the leisure experience - is the primary function. It argues that the combination of the automobile as the dominant form of transport and a road system to support it, along with a largely unconstrained and unregulated free market economy relying for its health upon personal consumption, and largely in the absence of historical vernacular forms (and topographical constraints) has meant the proliferation of a distinct and spectacular urban public realm. By reference to a number of specific examples, the paper proposes that it is possible to group particular instances according to characteristics of form, function and display or promotion. It concludes by suggesting that because the dominant historical moment which has produced the majority of built form in this part of the States has been and continues to be that of the free market capitalism of consumerism then this must constitute the aesthetic standard by which other forms might be judged, and are experienced or appreciated.
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