Why is it that public spaces, like petrol stations, shopping malls and airports, are depressing and boring? These spaces are extremely useful and functional, but why do they seem to lack any real architectural flair or soul? This podcast discusses the trade-off between the utility of a building and aesthetics. We examine what factors should influence the design of a building (e.g cost of maintenance, experience of the occupants, etc.) and whether it is possible to strike a balance between architectural style, functionality and cost. Peter also explains the eponymous 'Coghill Hierarchy of Architecture' and we provide examples of buildings that we believe are well-designed and others that should have been left on the technical drawing board. A few things we mentioned in this podcast: - A History of the Elephant & Castle https://blackcablondon.wordpress.com/2012/10/23/a-history-of-the-elephant-castle-part-one/?preview_id=4256&preview_nonce=1167df0030&preview=true - The Real Concrete Island? https://web.archive.org/web/20201108113646/https://www.ballardian.com/the-real-concrete-island - Reddit: Liminal Space https://www.reddit.com/r/LiminalSpace/ For more information on Aleph Insights visit our website https://alephinsights.com or to get in touch about our podcast email podcast@alephinsights.com Image: Gerald England via Creative Commons