Anne's blog: From the architect's notebook

From the Royal Festival Hall to Windermere... Recently I visited two iconic buildings for non-work-related reasons. What a pleasure it was to be reminded of the difference that good design makes, as an ordinary user of these spaces. Firstly, I attended a concert at the Royal Festival Hall. This is a building nearing its 70th birthday, yet it felt as fresh, new and successful for its current audience as it must have done when it was first built. This struck me because of the easy flow around the building, the light and airy spaces, and simple access between them. It gave the impression of a calm and unhurried space, an oasis in the hustle and bustle of one of the busiest cities in the world. When I took my seat in the auditorium, the thought and consideration in the seating layout, materials and viewpoint was obvious. The natural wood of the interior seemed supremely fresh and contemporary. The sound was clear and immersive. I particularly admired the attention to small