For almost seven weeks now, the West Metro Studio has been researching and discussing TODs (Transit Oriented Developments). As self-proclaiming ‘intellectuals’ (yes, that will include architects/designers/planners), we pride ourselves in the consciousness, responsibilities and ethical considerations behind every decision we make in creating new buildings, places, cities…
I came across this in a forwarded e-mail recently:
Air conditioned bus stops in Dubai!
(Image from thecontaminated.com)
After so many crazy experiments and intense development Dubai has been through, I can already imagine some nature-loving environmentalists going “sheikh bashing” again. Yes it sure doesn’t look very environmental friendly at first glance, but what about the energy the cold-climate countries use to heat their bus stops? What about your car’s air conditioning system…? From this point of view, I’d say they could be equally as bad.
I guess if you look at this from a different angle, these are not as bad an idea as they may seem. Essentially, the whole concept of creating a TOD is to be more environmentally sustainable by switching from cars to public transportation, by converting drivers into commuters… Well, in an unfavorable weather condition, it is perhaps necessary to provide an artificial environment which will enable commuters to get to their destinations comfortably.
And of course there’s more to this equation — Is it worth it?
That, I do not know. I am not taking any sides just yet, and besides, at the moment I cannot say I’m a very “green” person heheh. But there are always two sides to every story. Well in this case I believe we have to consider the greater good.
Oh well! I just personally feel they could have done a better job designing that bus stop! 
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