As old barracks and schools are snapped up to accommodate creative clusters (small businesses pooling together to create either self-initiated or state-sponsored communities found in Mount Sophia, Emily Hill and Wessex Estate) and also support capitalist-driven bohemian life (such as the eateries, spas and upcoming resort in Rochester Park and Dempsey Hill), there appears to be a common pattern in the way spaces have been occupied and continue to grow through use. Rather than appreciating the building as something extraordinary, out of context or as rarified object, there is growing awareness about the fragility of the architecture here as more than the buildings themselves, but the site, more than its histories. This pattern is intriguing. Granted that they were initially engineered by state-controlled bodies, these spaces have subsequently triggered experiences, expectations, and a conscience that exceeds the deadly sameness of conclusions summarily drawn from urban design and conservation guidelines.

So, how does one make sense of this, shall we call it, atmosphere?