DESCRIPTION

Vancouver's Architectural debates are rubbish. We've all been there: a panel of similar designers with similar views taking it in turns to talk at length about their similar work - too polite, too deferential, too dull. At best they are lukewarm love-ins, critically impotent, elitist and stuffy. Turncoats is a shot in the arm. Framed by theatrically provocative opening gambits, a series of debates will rugby tackle fundamental issues facing contemporary practice with a playful and combative format designed to foment open and critical discussion, turning conventional consensus on its head.

Turncoats #8: Welcome to the Design Desert

Who doesn’t want to throw up when reading useless labels like “most liveable city”, “greenest city”, or “hotspot for sustainable design”? Nothing can cover up the harsh reality: If not for its famed geography and picturesque surroundings, Vancouver would be a third or fourth tier city. Where are the buildings and public spaces that are artful, intelligent and innovative? Where are the ideas? Design isn’t valued here. We’re thirsty for an oasis in this design desert!

The Panel

Sophie Maguire is a choreographer and landscape designer working at the intersection of drawing, history, and performance. She currently works as a project designer at PFS Studio.

Derek Lee is a principal at PWL Partnership. His locally recognized accomplishments include his lead design direction on the community planning and implementation of Southeast False Creek, Dockside Green and New Westminster Pier Park.



Anne Pearson is a recovered- architect, design-advocate and owner of the furniture+design shop Vancouver Special on Main Street.



Travis Hanks is a co-founder and Principal Architect at Haeccity Studio Architecture, and is an Adjunct Professor at UBC SALA.