Double Vision


[ Photo: Dan Bertolet ]


[ Photo: Dan Bertolet ]

Do I detect a pattern here? Both projects were designed and built by Pb Elemental. Now don’t get me wrong — for the most part I love this firm’s work. But I couldn’t help noticing how many of their projects have this mirrored dual symmetry (e.g. the live-work project noted here).

Pb Elemental is proving that it is possible to produce townhouses that don’t suck. However, I have to point out that both of the projects pictured above are a bit weak when it comes to engaging the street. Hmm, where are the front doors? Frontages like this are not conducive to people interacting with their neighbors. Imagine the project in the lower photo with four cars parked up against it — a pretty sorry street presence.

As with most townhouses, even the thoughtful designs shown above are debased by accommodating cars.