Comprehensive Studio

     I'll keep it brief - I'm exhausted. This semester's studio is Comprehensive Studio; meaning we work in teams to design a building to code, with a structural analysis and mechanical systems (which is the next step). We are also required to produce sheets that are in accordance with the American CAD Standards(hence some of the weird formatting). My partner, Claire, and I have only worked in places that don't follow the IBC (International Building Code) so this has been a re-learning experience for us. I love working with her, which is rare because she is also a good friend of mine. It's also nice that our talents and speed are in different areas (her models and sketching, me computers).

     Since the studio as a whole does site analysis I don't have any pictured below. The project is a mixed-use, Urban infill project in the historical LoDo district of Downtown Denver. Located here. There are a lot of building restrictions that I won't get into here. The line weights are a little messy thanks to InDesign, but I'm too tired to figure out how to fix it. My apologies. Enjoy!

PS...for all you non-architecture people, the pretty colored pictures are at the end.

Open publication - Free publishing - More architecture

Good fight and goodnight

-M

     I'll keep it brief - I'm exhausted. This semester's studio is Comprehensive Studio; meaning we work in teams to design a building to code, with a structural analysis and mechanical systems (which is the next step). We are also required to produce sheets that are in accordance with the American CAD Standards(hence some of the weird formatting). My partner, Claire, and I have only worked in places that don't follow the IBC (International Building Code) so this has been a re-learning experience for us. I love working with her, which is rare because she is also a good friend of mine. It's also nice that our talents and speed are in different areas (her models and sketching, me computers).

     Since the studio as a whole does site analysis I don't have any pictured below. The project is a mixed-use, Urban infill project in the historical LoDo district of Downtown Denver. Located here. There are a lot of building restrictions that I won't get into here. The line weights are a little messy thanks to InDesign, but I'm too tired to figure out how to fix it. My apologies. Enjoy!

PS...for all you non-architecture people, the pretty colored pictures are at the end.

Open publication - Free publishing - More architecture

Good fight and goodnight

-M

     I'll keep it brief - I'm exhausted. This semester's studio is Comprehensive Studio; meaning we work in teams to design a building to code, with a structural analysis and mechanical systems (which is the next step). We are also required to produce sheets that are in accordance with the American CAD Standards(hence some of the weird formatting). My partner, Claire, and I have only worked in places that don't follow the IBC (International Building Code) so this has been a re-learning experience for us. I love working with her, which is rare because she is also a good friend of mine. It's also nice that our talents and speed are in different areas (her models and sketching, me computers).

     Since the studio as a whole does site analysis I don't have any pictured below. The project is a mixed-use, Urban infill project in the historical LoDo district of Downtown Denver. Located here. There are a lot of building restrictions that I won't get into here. The line weights are a little messy thanks to InDesign, but I'm too tired to figure out how to fix it. My apologies. Enjoy!

PS...for all you non-architecture people, the pretty colored pictures are at the end.

Open publication - Free publishing - More architecture

Good fight and goodnight

-M

     I'll keep it brief - I'm exhausted. This semester's studio is Comprehensive Studio; meaning we work in teams to design a building to code, with a structural analysis and mechanical systems (which is the next step). We are also required to produce sheets that are in accordance with the American CAD Standards(hence some of the weird formatting). My partner, Claire, and I have only worked in places that don't follow the IBC (International Building Code) so this has been a re-learning experience for us. I love working with her, which is rare because she is also a good friend of mine. It's also nice that our talents and speed are in different areas (her models and sketching, me computers).

     Since the studio as a whole does site analysis I don't have any pictured below. The project is a mixed-use, Urban infill project in the historical LoDo district of Downtown Denver. Located here. There are a lot of building restrictions that I won't get into here. The line weights are a little messy thanks to InDesign, but I'm too tired to figure out how to fix it. My apologies. Enjoy!

PS...for all you non-architecture people, the pretty colored pictures are at the end.

Open publication - Free publishing - More architecture

Good fight and goodnight

-M

Operation Mountain Guardian...

     Most of the world outside of the greater Denver area have most likely never heard of Operation Mountain Guarding. In fact, I'd bet that most people, including those here in D-town don't even care. Normally I wouldn't bother to write about some silly little drill that the media can use as fuel for the America-the-Paraniod fire, but this one caught my attention.

     Most of the world outside of the greater Denver area have most likely never heard of Operation Mountain Guarding. In fact, I'd bet that most people, including those here in D-town don't even care. Normally I wouldn't bother to write about some silly little drill that the media can use as fuel for the America-the-Paraniod fire, but this one caught my attention.

     Most of the world outside of the greater Denver area have most likely never heard of Operation Mountain Guarding. In fact, I'd bet that most people, including those here in D-town don't even care. Normally I wouldn't bother to write about some silly little drill that the media can use as fuel for the America-the-Paraniod fire, but this one caught my attention.

     Most of the world outside of the greater Denver area have most likely never heard of Operation Mountain Guarding. In fact, I'd bet that most people, including those here in D-town don't even care. Normally I wouldn't bother to write about some silly little drill that the media can use as fuel for the America-the-Paraniod fire, but this one caught my attention.

I Heart My City

I found this survey here. It was a project done a while ago through National Geographic. As most of you could probably guess, I love NatGeo. So I decided to fill this one out for D-town.




My City Questionnaire

Denver is My City

The first place I take a visitor from out of town is Rocky Mountain National Park.

When I crave the perfect burger I always go H Burger or My Brother's Bar.

To escape the super-packed bars I head to Forest Room 5.

If I want to eat sushi I go The (Sushi) Den.

For complete quiet, I can hide away in The Tattered Cover.

If you come to my city, get your picture taken with a bum on 16th St or the Big Blue Bear.

If you have to order one thing off the menu from H Burger it has to be Marshmallow Nutella shake...spiked.

Falling Rock is my one-stop shop for great beer, with over 105 choices you are bound to find something.

Locals know to skip 16th Street and check out the Highlands instead.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped I go to happy hour.

For a huge splurge I go to Cherry Creek.

Photo ops in my city include the Millennium Bridge, Denver Arts Museum, Red Rocks, and Mount Falcon and the best vantage points are Mount Falcon, Red Rocks, and my balcony.

Balcony

If my city were a celebrity it’d be Cheech or Chong.

The most random thing about my city is the people.

He doesn't live there anymore, but this is not something I would put under 'unusual'

My city has the most ski bums and mountain men...hence Menver.

My city has the most athletic women, and cougars.

In my city, an active day outdoors is pretty much everyday.

My city’s best museum is most would say the Denver Art Museum...it's a touchy subject.

My favorite jogging/walking route is Commons Park or Wash Park.

For a night of dancing, go to the Church, Beta, or the Gin Mill depending on your mood. Or, for live music, check out RED ROCKS.

Red Rocks

Illegal Pete's or a road side burrito joint is the spot for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read Westword.

You can tell a lot about my city from the smells: food, snow, and pot. Yelp! is helpful as well.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they own cowboy boots, a snowboard jacket, and a Tim Tebow jersey...or better yet, wear them at the same time.

In the spring you should be at Fado's for St. Patty's, Closing Weekends, and Opening Day @ Coors Field.

Playoffs

In the summer you should go to a rooftop, then see a game in the Rock Pile, then return to a rooftop, wake up the next day rock climb, then head to Jazz in the Park.

In the fall you should walk around The Confluence, go to the Great American Beer Festival, and go out for Denver Cruiser Rides end of the season.

In the winter you should hit the slopes, come back to Denver for Restaurant Week.

Backside of Vail

A hidden gem in my city is the Rodeo, although it isn't that hidden =).

For a great breakfast joint try Mona's or Snooze.

Don’t miss the Great American Beer Festival in September/October.

Just outside my city, you can visit the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

The best way to see my city is by bike.

If my city were a pet it would be a dog, everyone has one.

If I didn’t live in a city, I’d live (where?) Oh you probably shouldn't ask me that as my answers are endless.

The best book about my city is Jack Kerouac wrote here.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is the South Park theme song.

If you have kids, you won’t want to miss camping.

Seeing 'cowboys,' 'ski bums,' 'hipsters,' and 'hippies' co-exist could only happen in my city.

-M

I found this survey here. It was a project done a while ago through National Geographic. As most of you could probably guess, I love NatGeo. So I decided to fill this one out for D-town.




My City Questionnaire

Denver is My City

The first place I take a visitor from out of town is Rocky Mountain National Park.

When I crave the perfect burger I always go H Burger or My Brother's Bar.

To escape the super-packed bars I head to Forest Room 5.

If I want to eat sushi I go The (Sushi) Den.

For complete quiet, I can hide away in The Tattered Cover.

If you come to my city, get your picture taken with a bum on 16th St or the Big Blue Bear.

If you have to order one thing off the menu from H Burger it has to be Marshmallow Nutella shake...spiked.

Falling Rock is my one-stop shop for great beer, with over 105 choices you are bound to find something.

Locals know to skip 16th Street and check out the Highlands instead.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped I go to happy hour.

For a huge splurge I go to Cherry Creek.

Photo ops in my city include the Millennium Bridge, Denver Arts Museum, Red Rocks, and Mount Falcon and the best vantage points are Mount Falcon, Red Rocks, and my balcony.

Balcony

If my city were a celebrity it’d be Cheech or Chong.

The most random thing about my city is the people.

He doesn't live there anymore, but this is not something I would put under 'unusual'

My city has the most ski bums and mountain men...hence Menver.

My city has the most athletic women, and cougars.

In my city, an active day outdoors is pretty much everyday.

My city’s best museum is most would say the Denver Art Museum...it's a touchy subject.

My favorite jogging/walking route is Commons Park or Wash Park.

For a night of dancing, go to the Church, Beta, or the Gin Mill depending on your mood. Or, for live music, check out RED ROCKS.

Red Rocks

Illegal Pete's or a road side burrito joint is the spot for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read Westword.

You can tell a lot about my city from the smells: food, snow, and pot. Yelp! is helpful as well.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they own cowboy boots, a snowboard jacket, and a Tim Tebow jersey...or better yet, wear them at the same time.

In the spring you should be at Fado's for St. Patty's, Closing Weekends, and Opening Day @ Coors Field.

Playoffs

In the summer you should go to a rooftop, then see a game in the Rock Pile, then return to a rooftop, wake up the next day rock climb, then head to Jazz in the Park.

In the fall you should walk around The Confluence, go to the Great American Beer Festival, and go out for Denver Cruiser Rides end of the season.

In the winter you should hit the slopes, come back to Denver for Restaurant Week.

Backside of Vail

A hidden gem in my city is the Rodeo, although it isn't that hidden =).

For a great breakfast joint try Mona's or Snooze.

Don’t miss the Great American Beer Festival in September/October.

Just outside my city, you can visit the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

The best way to see my city is by bike.

If my city were a pet it would be a dog, everyone has one.

If I didn’t live in a city, I’d live (where?) Oh you probably shouldn't ask me that as my answers are endless.

The best book about my city is Jack Kerouac wrote here.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is the South Park theme song.

If you have kids, you won’t want to miss camping.

Seeing 'cowboys,' 'ski bums,' 'hipsters,' and 'hippies' co-exist could only happen in my city.

-M

I found this survey here. It was a project done a while ago through National Geographic. As most of you could probably guess, I love NatGeo. So I decided to fill this one out for D-town.




My City Questionnaire

Denver is My City

The first place I take a visitor from out of town is Rocky Mountain National Park.

When I crave the perfect burger I always go H Burger or My Brother's Bar.

To escape the super-packed bars I head to Forest Room 5.

If I want to eat sushi I go The (Sushi) Den.

For complete quiet, I can hide away in The Tattered Cover.

If you come to my city, get your picture taken with a bum on 16th St or the Big Blue Bear.

If you have to order one thing off the menu from H Burger it has to be Marshmallow Nutella shake...spiked.

Falling Rock is my one-stop shop for great beer, with over 105 choices you are bound to find something.

Locals know to skip 16th Street and check out the Highlands instead.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped I go to happy hour.

For a huge splurge I go to Cherry Creek.

Photo ops in my city include the Millennium Bridge, Denver Arts Museum, Red Rocks, and Mount Falcon and the best vantage points are Mount Falcon, Red Rocks, and my balcony.

Balcony

If my city were a celebrity it’d be Cheech or Chong.

The most random thing about my city is the people.

He doesn't live there anymore, but this is not something I would put under 'unusual'

My city has the most ski bums and mountain men...hence Menver.

My city has the most athletic women, and cougars.

In my city, an active day outdoors is pretty much everyday.

My city’s best museum is most would say the Denver Art Museum...it's a touchy subject.

My favorite jogging/walking route is Commons Park or Wash Park.

For a night of dancing, go to the Church, Beta, or the Gin Mill depending on your mood. Or, for live music, check out RED ROCKS.

Red Rocks

Illegal Pete's or a road side burrito joint is the spot for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read Westword.

You can tell a lot about my city from the smells: food, snow, and pot. Yelp! is helpful as well.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they own cowboy boots, a snowboard jacket, and a Tim Tebow jersey...or better yet, wear them at the same time.

In the spring you should be at Fado's for St. Patty's, Closing Weekends, and Opening Day @ Coors Field.

Playoffs

In the summer you should go to a rooftop, then see a game in the Rock Pile, then return to a rooftop, wake up the next day rock climb, then head to Jazz in the Park.

In the fall you should walk around The Confluence, go to the Great American Beer Festival, and go out for Denver Cruiser Rides end of the season.

In the winter you should hit the slopes, come back to Denver for Restaurant Week.

Backside of Vail

A hidden gem in my city is the Rodeo, although it isn't that hidden =).

For a great breakfast joint try Mona's or Snooze.

Don’t miss the Great American Beer Festival in September/October.

Just outside my city, you can visit the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

The best way to see my city is by bike.

If my city were a pet it would be a dog, everyone has one.

If I didn’t live in a city, I’d live (where?) Oh you probably shouldn't ask me that as my answers are endless.

The best book about my city is Jack Kerouac wrote here.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is the South Park theme song.

If you have kids, you won’t want to miss camping.

Seeing 'cowboys,' 'ski bums,' 'hipsters,' and 'hippies' co-exist could only happen in my city.

-M

I found this survey here. It was a project done a while ago through National Geographic. As most of you could probably guess, I love NatGeo. So I decided to fill this one out for D-town.




My City Questionnaire

Denver is My City

The first place I take a visitor from out of town is Rocky Mountain National Park.

When I crave the perfect burger I always go H Burger or My Brother's Bar.

To escape the super-packed bars I head to Forest Room 5.

If I want to eat sushi I go The (Sushi) Den.

For complete quiet, I can hide away in The Tattered Cover.

If you come to my city, get your picture taken with a bum on 16th St or the Big Blue Bear.

If you have to order one thing off the menu from H Burger it has to be Marshmallow Nutella shake...spiked.

Falling Rock is my one-stop shop for great beer, with over 105 choices you are bound to find something.

Locals know to skip 16th Street and check out the Highlands instead.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped I go to happy hour.

For a huge splurge I go to Cherry Creek.

Photo ops in my city include the Millennium Bridge, Denver Arts Museum, Red Rocks, and Mount Falcon and the best vantage points are Mount Falcon, Red Rocks, and my balcony.

Balcony

If my city were a celebrity it’d be Cheech or Chong.

The most random thing about my city is the people.

He doesn't live there anymore, but this is not something I would put under 'unusual'

My city has the most ski bums and mountain men...hence Menver.

My city has the most athletic women, and cougars.

In my city, an active day outdoors is pretty much everyday.

My city’s best museum is most would say the Denver Art Museum...it's a touchy subject.

My favorite jogging/walking route is Commons Park or Wash Park.

For a night of dancing, go to the Church, Beta, or the Gin Mill depending on your mood. Or, for live music, check out RED ROCKS.

Red Rocks

Illegal Pete's or a road side burrito joint is the spot for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read Westword.

You can tell a lot about my city from the smells: food, snow, and pot. Yelp! is helpful as well.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they own cowboy boots, a snowboard jacket, and a Tim Tebow jersey...or better yet, wear them at the same time.

In the spring you should be at Fado's for St. Patty's, Closing Weekends, and Opening Day @ Coors Field.

Playoffs

In the summer you should go to a rooftop, then see a game in the Rock Pile, then return to a rooftop, wake up the next day rock climb, then head to Jazz in the Park.

In the fall you should walk around The Confluence, go to the Great American Beer Festival, and go out for Denver Cruiser Rides end of the season.

In the winter you should hit the slopes, come back to Denver for Restaurant Week.

Backside of Vail

A hidden gem in my city is the Rodeo, although it isn't that hidden =).

For a great breakfast joint try Mona's or Snooze.

Don’t miss the Great American Beer Festival in September/October.

Just outside my city, you can visit the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

The best way to see my city is by bike.

If my city were a pet it would be a dog, everyone has one.

If I didn’t live in a city, I’d live (where?) Oh you probably shouldn't ask me that as my answers are endless.

The best book about my city is Jack Kerouac wrote here.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is the South Park theme song.

If you have kids, you won’t want to miss camping.

Seeing 'cowboys,' 'ski bums,' 'hipsters,' and 'hippies' co-exist could only happen in my city.

-M

KL Bound

     I've recently accepted my first internship on the architectural stage. I started my master's program fresh out of undergrad thinking that once I'm out (a mere 3 and a half years later) the economy will have suddenly and magically bounced back to its former self. Ahh...the naiveté of the young college graduate. Needless to say I passionately, boldly, or - as some professors have mentioned - stupidly entered a business that is notorious for being the first to crash and the last to recover. Without going into too much detail, there simply are very few, if any jobs in the States. Despite the fact that there are several massive construction projects going on all around my apartment, Denver does not seem interested in hiring architectural interns at this time. Their loss I suppose. Fortunately for me, I have my eyes set on a bigger horizon. Travel and world culture is half the reason I became interested in architecture in the first place. Furthermore, while the west struggles to figure out what the hell it did wrong (although most of the educated youth could probably give you a better answer than the media or the White House), the east is experiencing an economic boom. Economic boom = building boom. What better way to get one's feet wet in the industry than to dive right in - no swimmies. Thus, I was fortunate enough to get hooked up with Veritas, a Malaysian based firm, for the summer. So come this May I'm packing my bags and moving to Kuala Lumpur or colloquially known as KL.

     It would be an understatement to say that I am excited. With excitement comes many other emotions. It isn't going to be all happy glitz and picture snapping like a casual holiday, but I'm going to actually have to live here, figure out how to squeeze by on very little money, and hopefully be confident enough to communicate with Malaysians...in Bahasa Malayu. However, this ain't my first time at the rodeo folks. I lived in Denmark for 4 months and I've at least been to Asia; which is enough to say that I can expect a long flight with multiple day changes. My first trip to Asia, despite its messy story, changed my life forever. There is something about the east that absolutely intrigues me to know more and more about a place so different from anything I've ever been exposed to. One could argue a lot of places in the west are like this; however much of east Asia operates on a completely different set of core values. It is a 'we' society, with the western world being a 'me' society. You aren't a gringo and you aren't a stUpEED AmericAn. They've got something entirely different going on over there and it seems to actually be working for the most part, at least in terms of longevity (there are obvious human rights abuses, an enormous wealth gap, various environmental issues, and don't forget our dearest friend Kim Jung Il...but I will save you from those rants). So why not learn a few tricks from a different trade? Maybe it could help us figure out why we do the things we do as a western culture or even help to bridge the massive communication gap between the two. It definitely can't hurt.

     It would be unfair not to mention my first experience in Asia, a trip to Mongolia (and I was supposed to end up in China) last May. I know many of you who actually know me will be rolling your eyes at this one, but I promise to refrain from getting into the whole violent, death-threatening food poisoning ordeal that happened there. Although it ruined my trip, and (compounded by traveling alone), undoubtably, had a permanent affect on my psyche there is really nothing more to mention about it other that I am concerned for my digestive system in Malaysia as well. If it happens again, so be it. Although in a large city like KL I'm less likely to be immediately confronted with a hot plate of late May's mystery meat and noodles at some Mongolian roadside cafe where the road is simply a series of hard-carved ruts on a dirt path (also known as a Mongolian super highway...if you don't believe me buy yourself a ticket to Ulaan Baator and see for yourself). Plus, I am too much of a food enthusiast to let a sensitive stomach ruin an amazing meal. I'm not going to miss out on the finer parts of Malay cuisine and its wide range of influences just to avoid heart burn. No pain no gain I say.

     Despite the end of that trip, what I really took away from my Mongolian adventure wasn't about being a lone patient in a hospital in the least densely populated nation in the world. It was about the journey. I made 2 lasting friendships (I will hopefully be able to meet up with one of my friends, an expat living in South Korea this summer - fingers crossed). There is something to be said being in a place where nomadic life has ruled for centuries and if you want (and you really should, cuz it would be a damn shame if you didn't) get out of UB and live life out on the steppes for a bit. Unlike many a Disneyland-esque places that exist because of mass tourism, you can actually participate in it. I can sometimes still close my eyes and remember what it feels like to stick your head out the window like a happy lab; wind blowing across your face, maybe even your tongue hanging out while you bounce around on a so called 'road' (aka a small set of dents in the grass where someone drove 5 days before you) and literally look out and see vast expanses of open space. No fences, no property lines, the occasional white ger and massive amounts of herds of yak, camel, sheep, goats, and horses off in the distance or crossing your path constantly. It is here where I truly learned the power of the journey.

     The roots of ancient Malaysian culture are also embedded in the concept of the journey. Personal journeys are present in the traditional art of tattoos in tribal Malay cultures. Furthermore, KL and the rest of Malaysia have something to teach the world about co-existance. Malaysia is a predominately Muslim country (60%) with Islam being the national religion. However, the law allows for freedom of religion,  therefore alcohol, and even goes one step further to include the other major practiced religions (Buddhism, Hindu, and Christianity) in the public holiday calendar. Yes, women have rights, and aside from PDA, you can dress how you want and come and go as you please. So with that whole issue aside, I am excited to learn, and hopefully be able to report how exactly these four major world religions have co-existed here in a peaceful manner since Malaysian independence back in the 60s. It is an example, especially given today's events and what is going on in the Middle East/North Africa, that everyone could benefit from.

     Well enough questioning of the world's problems and the so-called meaning of life. What the hell do I know anyway? I've got some logistics to figure out. I've gotta see one of those travel docs again. Last time I visited one I got poked in the arm 4 times in order to be allowed to venture into the Peruvian Amazon. Apparently, that wasn't enough intimate times with the needle, so I've got two more on my list and I need to make an appointment. Not to mention I've been procrastinating my Systems homework all week (hurray for reading about fire suppression systems and phone lines!).

Until next time.

-M

     I've recently accepted my first internship on the architectural stage. I started my master's program fresh out of undergrad thinking that once I'm out (a mere 3 and a half years later) the economy will have suddenly and magically bounced back to its former self. Ahh...the naiveté of the young college graduate. Needless to say I passionately, boldly, or - as some professors have mentioned - stupidly entered a business that is notorious for being the first to crash and the last to recover. Without going into too much detail, there simply are very few, if any jobs in the States. Despite the fact that there are several massive construction projects going on all around my apartment, Denver does not seem interested in hiring architectural interns at this time. Their loss I suppose. Fortunately for me, I have my eyes set on a bigger horizon. Travel and world culture is half the reason I became interested in architecture in the first place. Furthermore, while the west struggles to figure out what the hell it did wrong (although most of the educated youth could probably give you a better answer than the media or the White House), the east is experiencing an economic boom. Economic boom = building boom. What better way to get one's feet wet in the industry than to dive right in - no swimmies. Thus, I was fortunate enough to get hooked up with Veritas, a Malaysian based firm, for the summer. So come this May I'm packing my bags and moving to Kuala Lumpur or colloquially known as KL.

     It would be an understatement to say that I am excited. With excitement comes many other emotions. It isn't going to be all happy glitz and picture snapping like a casual holiday, but I'm going to actually have to live here, figure out how to squeeze by on very little money, and hopefully be confident enough to communicate with Malaysians...in Bahasa Malayu. However, this ain't my first time at the rodeo folks. I lived in Denmark for 4 months and I've at least been to Asia; which is enough to say that I can expect a long flight with multiple day changes. My first trip to Asia, despite its messy story, changed my life forever. There is something about the east that absolutely intrigues me to know more and more about a place so different from anything I've ever been exposed to. One could argue a lot of places in the west are like this; however much of east Asia operates on a completely different set of core values. It is a 'we' society, with the western world being a 'me' society. You aren't a gringo and you aren't a stUpEED AmericAn. They've got something entirely different going on over there and it seems to actually be working for the most part, at least in terms of longevity (there are obvious human rights abuses, an enormous wealth gap, various environmental issues, and don't forget our dearest friend Kim Jung Il...but I will save you from those rants). So why not learn a few tricks from a different trade? Maybe it could help us figure out why we do the things we do as a western culture or even help to bridge the massive communication gap between the two. It definitely can't hurt.

     It would be unfair not to mention my first experience in Asia, a trip to Mongolia (and I was supposed to end up in China) last May. I know many of you who actually know me will be rolling your eyes at this one, but I promise to refrain from getting into the whole violent, death-threatening food poisoning ordeal that happened there. Although it ruined my trip, and (compounded by traveling alone), undoubtably, had a permanent affect on my psyche there is really nothing more to mention about it other that I am concerned for my digestive system in Malaysia as well. If it happens again, so be it. Although in a large city like KL I'm less likely to be immediately confronted with a hot plate of late May's mystery meat and noodles at some Mongolian roadside cafe where the road is simply a series of hard-carved ruts on a dirt path (also known as a Mongolian super highway...if you don't believe me buy yourself a ticket to Ulaan Baator and see for yourself). Plus, I am too much of a food enthusiast to let a sensitive stomach ruin an amazing meal. I'm not going to miss out on the finer parts of Malay cuisine and its wide range of influences just to avoid heart burn. No pain no gain I say.

     Despite the end of that trip, what I really took away from my Mongolian adventure wasn't about being a lone patient in a hospital in the least densely populated nation in the world. It was about the journey. I made 2 lasting friendships (I will hopefully be able to meet up with one of my friends, an expat living in South Korea this summer - fingers crossed). There is something to be said being in a place where nomadic life has ruled for centuries and if you want (and you really should, cuz it would be a damn shame if you didn't) get out of UB and live life out on the steppes for a bit. Unlike many a Disneyland-esque places that exist because of mass tourism, you can actually participate in it. I can sometimes still close my eyes and remember what it feels like to stick your head out the window like a happy lab; wind blowing across your face, maybe even your tongue hanging out while you bounce around on a so called 'road' (aka a small set of dents in the grass where someone drove 5 days before you) and literally look out and see vast expanses of open space. No fences, no property lines, the occasional white ger and massive amounts of herds of yak, camel, sheep, goats, and horses off in the distance or crossing your path constantly. It is here where I truly learned the power of the journey.

     The roots of ancient Malaysian culture are also embedded in the concept of the journey. Personal journeys are present in the traditional art of tattoos in tribal Malay cultures. Furthermore, KL and the rest of Malaysia have something to teach the world about co-existance. Malaysia is a predominately Muslim country (60%) with Islam being the national religion. However, the law allows for freedom of religion,  therefore alcohol, and even goes one step further to include the other major practiced religions (Buddhism, Hindu, and Christianity) in the public holiday calendar. Yes, women have rights, and aside from PDA, you can dress how you want and come and go as you please. So with that whole issue aside, I am excited to learn, and hopefully be able to report how exactly these four major world religions have co-existed here in a peaceful manner since Malaysian independence back in the 60s. It is an example, especially given today's events and what is going on in the Middle East/North Africa, that everyone could benefit from.

     Well enough questioning of the world's problems and the so-called meaning of life. What the hell do I know anyway? I've got some logistics to figure out. I've gotta see one of those travel docs again. Last time I visited one I got poked in the arm 4 times in order to be allowed to venture into the Peruvian Amazon. Apparently, that wasn't enough intimate times with the needle, so I've got two more on my list and I need to make an appointment. Not to mention I've been procrastinating my Systems homework all week (hurray for reading about fire suppression systems and phone lines!).

Until next time.

-M

     I've recently accepted my first internship on the architectural stage. I started my master's program fresh out of undergrad thinking that once I'm out (a mere 3 and a half years later) the economy will have suddenly and magically bounced back to its former self. Ahh...the naiveté of the young college graduate. Needless to say I passionately, boldly, or - as some professors have mentioned - stupidly entered a business that is notorious for being the first to crash and the last to recover. Without going into too much detail, there simply are very few, if any jobs in the States. Despite the fact that there are several massive construction projects going on all around my apartment, Denver does not seem interested in hiring architectural interns at this time. Their loss I suppose. Fortunately for me, I have my eyes set on a bigger horizon. Travel and world culture is half the reason I became interested in architecture in the first place. Furthermore, while the west struggles to figure out what the hell it did wrong (although most of the educated youth could probably give you a better answer than the media or the White House), the east is experiencing an economic boom. Economic boom = building boom. What better way to get one's feet wet in the industry than to dive right in - no swimmies. Thus, I was fortunate enough to get hooked up with Veritas, a Malaysian based firm, for the summer. So come this May I'm packing my bags and moving to Kuala Lumpur or colloquially known as KL.

     It would be an understatement to say that I am excited. With excitement comes many other emotions. It isn't going to be all happy glitz and picture snapping like a casual holiday, but I'm going to actually have to live here, figure out how to squeeze by on very little money, and hopefully be confident enough to communicate with Malaysians...in Bahasa Malayu. However, this ain't my first time at the rodeo folks. I lived in Denmark for 4 months and I've at least been to Asia; which is enough to say that I can expect a long flight with multiple day changes. My first trip to Asia, despite its messy story, changed my life forever. There is something about the east that absolutely intrigues me to know more and more about a place so different from anything I've ever been exposed to. One could argue a lot of places in the west are like this; however much of east Asia operates on a completely different set of core values. It is a 'we' society, with the western world being a 'me' society. You aren't a gringo and you aren't a stUpEED AmericAn. They've got something entirely different going on over there and it seems to actually be working for the most part, at least in terms of longevity (there are obvious human rights abuses, an enormous wealth gap, various environmental issues, and don't forget our dearest friend Kim Jung Il...but I will save you from those rants). So why not learn a few tricks from a different trade? Maybe it could help us figure out why we do the things we do as a western culture or even help to bridge the massive communication gap between the two. It definitely can't hurt.

     It would be unfair not to mention my first experience in Asia, a trip to Mongolia (and I was supposed to end up in China) last May. I know many of you who actually know me will be rolling your eyes at this one, but I promise to refrain from getting into the whole violent, death-threatening food poisoning ordeal that happened there. Although it ruined my trip, and (compounded by traveling alone), undoubtably, had a permanent affect on my psyche there is really nothing more to mention about it other that I am concerned for my digestive system in Malaysia as well. If it happens again, so be it. Although in a large city like KL I'm less likely to be immediately confronted with a hot plate of late May's mystery meat and noodles at some Mongolian roadside cafe where the road is simply a series of hard-carved ruts on a dirt path (also known as a Mongolian super highway...if you don't believe me buy yourself a ticket to Ulaan Baator and see for yourself). Plus, I am too much of a food enthusiast to let a sensitive stomach ruin an amazing meal. I'm not going to miss out on the finer parts of Malay cuisine and its wide range of influences just to avoid heart burn. No pain no gain I say.

     Despite the end of that trip, what I really took away from my Mongolian adventure wasn't about being a lone patient in a hospital in the least densely populated nation in the world. It was about the journey. I made 2 lasting friendships (I will hopefully be able to meet up with one of my friends, an expat living in South Korea this summer - fingers crossed). There is something to be said being in a place where nomadic life has ruled for centuries and if you want (and you really should, cuz it would be a damn shame if you didn't) get out of UB and live life out on the steppes for a bit. Unlike many a Disneyland-esque places that exist because of mass tourism, you can actually participate in it. I can sometimes still close my eyes and remember what it feels like to stick your head out the window like a happy lab; wind blowing across your face, maybe even your tongue hanging out while you bounce around on a so called 'road' (aka a small set of dents in the grass where someone drove 5 days before you) and literally look out and see vast expanses of open space. No fences, no property lines, the occasional white ger and massive amounts of herds of yak, camel, sheep, goats, and horses off in the distance or crossing your path constantly. It is here where I truly learned the power of the journey.

     The roots of ancient Malaysian culture are also embedded in the concept of the journey. Personal journeys are present in the traditional art of tattoos in tribal Malay cultures. Furthermore, KL and the rest of Malaysia have something to teach the world about co-existance. Malaysia is a predominately Muslim country (60%) with Islam being the national religion. However, the law allows for freedom of religion,  therefore alcohol, and even goes one step further to include the other major practiced religions (Buddhism, Hindu, and Christianity) in the public holiday calendar. Yes, women have rights, and aside from PDA, you can dress how you want and come and go as you please. So with that whole issue aside, I am excited to learn, and hopefully be able to report how exactly these four major world religions have co-existed here in a peaceful manner since Malaysian independence back in the 60s. It is an example, especially given today's events and what is going on in the Middle East/North Africa, that everyone could benefit from.

     Well enough questioning of the world's problems and the so-called meaning of life. What the hell do I know anyway? I've got some logistics to figure out. I've gotta see one of those travel docs again. Last time I visited one I got poked in the arm 4 times in order to be allowed to venture into the Peruvian Amazon. Apparently, that wasn't enough intimate times with the needle, so I've got two more on my list and I need to make an appointment. Not to mention I've been procrastinating my Systems homework all week (hurray for reading about fire suppression systems and phone lines!).

Until next time.

-M

     I've recently accepted my first internship on the architectural stage. I started my master's program fresh out of undergrad thinking that once I'm out (a mere 3 and a half years later) the economy will have suddenly and magically bounced back to its former self. Ahh...the naiveté of the young college graduate. Needless to say I passionately, boldly, or - as some professors have mentioned - stupidly entered a business that is notorious for being the first to crash and the last to recover. Without going into too much detail, there simply are very few, if any jobs in the States. Despite the fact that there are several massive construction projects going on all around my apartment, Denver does not seem interested in hiring architectural interns at this time. Their loss I suppose. Fortunately for me, I have my eyes set on a bigger horizon. Travel and world culture is half the reason I became interested in architecture in the first place. Furthermore, while the west struggles to figure out what the hell it did wrong (although most of the educated youth could probably give you a better answer than the media or the White House), the east is experiencing an economic boom. Economic boom = building boom. What better way to get one's feet wet in the industry than to dive right in - no swimmies. Thus, I was fortunate enough to get hooked up with Veritas, a Malaysian based firm, for the summer. So come this May I'm packing my bags and moving to Kuala Lumpur or colloquially known as KL.

     It would be an understatement to say that I am excited. With excitement comes many other emotions. It isn't going to be all happy glitz and picture snapping like a casual holiday, but I'm going to actually have to live here, figure out how to squeeze by on very little money, and hopefully be confident enough to communicate with Malaysians...in Bahasa Malayu. However, this ain't my first time at the rodeo folks. I lived in Denmark for 4 months and I've at least been to Asia; which is enough to say that I can expect a long flight with multiple day changes. My first trip to Asia, despite its messy story, changed my life forever. There is something about the east that absolutely intrigues me to know more and more about a place so different from anything I've ever been exposed to. One could argue a lot of places in the west are like this; however much of east Asia operates on a completely different set of core values. It is a 'we' society, with the western world being a 'me' society. You aren't a gringo and you aren't a stUpEED AmericAn. They've got something entirely different going on over there and it seems to actually be working for the most part, at least in terms of longevity (there are obvious human rights abuses, an enormous wealth gap, various environmental issues, and don't forget our dearest friend Kim Jung Il...but I will save you from those rants). So why not learn a few tricks from a different trade? Maybe it could help us figure out why we do the things we do as a western culture or even help to bridge the massive communication gap between the two. It definitely can't hurt.

     It would be unfair not to mention my first experience in Asia, a trip to Mongolia (and I was supposed to end up in China) last May. I know many of you who actually know me will be rolling your eyes at this one, but I promise to refrain from getting into the whole violent, death-threatening food poisoning ordeal that happened there. Although it ruined my trip, and (compounded by traveling alone), undoubtably, had a permanent affect on my psyche there is really nothing more to mention about it other that I am concerned for my digestive system in Malaysia as well. If it happens again, so be it. Although in a large city like KL I'm less likely to be immediately confronted with a hot plate of late May's mystery meat and noodles at some Mongolian roadside cafe where the road is simply a series of hard-carved ruts on a dirt path (also known as a Mongolian super highway...if you don't believe me buy yourself a ticket to Ulaan Baator and see for yourself). Plus, I am too much of a food enthusiast to let a sensitive stomach ruin an amazing meal. I'm not going to miss out on the finer parts of Malay cuisine and its wide range of influences just to avoid heart burn. No pain no gain I say.

     Despite the end of that trip, what I really took away from my Mongolian adventure wasn't about being a lone patient in a hospital in the least densely populated nation in the world. It was about the journey. I made 2 lasting friendships (I will hopefully be able to meet up with one of my friends, an expat living in South Korea this summer - fingers crossed). There is something to be said being in a place where nomadic life has ruled for centuries and if you want (and you really should, cuz it would be a damn shame if you didn't) get out of UB and live life out on the steppes for a bit. Unlike many a Disneyland-esque places that exist because of mass tourism, you can actually participate in it. I can sometimes still close my eyes and remember what it feels like to stick your head out the window like a happy lab; wind blowing across your face, maybe even your tongue hanging out while you bounce around on a so called 'road' (aka a small set of dents in the grass where someone drove 5 days before you) and literally look out and see vast expanses of open space. No fences, no property lines, the occasional white ger and massive amounts of herds of yak, camel, sheep, goats, and horses off in the distance or crossing your path constantly. It is here where I truly learned the power of the journey.

     The roots of ancient Malaysian culture are also embedded in the concept of the journey. Personal journeys are present in the traditional art of tattoos in tribal Malay cultures. Furthermore, KL and the rest of Malaysia have something to teach the world about co-existance. Malaysia is a predominately Muslim country (60%) with Islam being the national religion. However, the law allows for freedom of religion,  therefore alcohol, and even goes one step further to include the other major practiced religions (Buddhism, Hindu, and Christianity) in the public holiday calendar. Yes, women have rights, and aside from PDA, you can dress how you want and come and go as you please. So with that whole issue aside, I am excited to learn, and hopefully be able to report how exactly these four major world religions have co-existed here in a peaceful manner since Malaysian independence back in the 60s. It is an example, especially given today's events and what is going on in the Middle East/North Africa, that everyone could benefit from.

     Well enough questioning of the world's problems and the so-called meaning of life. What the hell do I know anyway? I've got some logistics to figure out. I've gotta see one of those travel docs again. Last time I visited one I got poked in the arm 4 times in order to be allowed to venture into the Peruvian Amazon. Apparently, that wasn't enough intimate times with the needle, so I've got two more on my list and I need to make an appointment. Not to mention I've been procrastinating my Systems homework all week (hurray for reading about fire suppression systems and phone lines!).

Until next time.

-M