OPINION / NIC MONISSE
Running the gamut
It’s this time of year that many people’s new year’s resolutions start to come unstuck. One of my plans for 2021 was to diversify my exercise routine beyond the bicycle. Having failed to do so, I realised that I needed some added motivation. Tying exercise to my love of design seemed like it might be the ticket, which begged the question: what’s the best sport for architecture enthusiasts?
Lasse Andersson, director of Denmark’s Utzon Center, suggests squash: “You play in plans, sections and elevations,” much like the sketches found on an architect’s drafting table. But Iain Borden, professor of architecture at The Bartlett, leans towards skateboarding, as it allows people to actively engage with static structures in a way that you can’t as a pedestrian. Although both pursuits are appealing, I’ve realised that there’s a simpler and lower-risk answer: jogging between a few of your favourite designer’s buildings.
Linking up the works of an architect by pounding the pavement allows you to appreciate the development of their design ethos over multiple projects. With this in mind, I joined architectural tour guide Ed Conway for a run in north London last weekend. Together we nipped between four of mid-century architect Berthold Lubetkin’s designs. While getting some much-needed cardio, we observed Lubetkin’s evolving use of colour and playfulness with perception. It’s an experience that has made me want to explore the works of other famed architects in a similar manner.
So, for anyone who wants to be more active this year but is struggling with motivation, might I suggest reframing your exercise as an architectural pursuit? Pull on your jogging shoes and map out a route that explores the work of a favourite designer, or two, in your own city. Or if this still feels like too much (and you live in London), then get in touch with Ed – he’ll be more than happy to show you around.