City Builders

Have you ever walked on a sidewalk that just ended? Or stood waiting far too long at a corner crosswalk and the "WALK" signal didn't light up? Have you walked across an excessively wide street and wondered why it has so many lanes? In this City Builders episode, Mark and Dorian pass along some of their observations in cities that they find to be missteps.....or simply frustrating. I...

How are downtown districts doing in the post-pandemic environment and with the recently embraced "work from home" office model? In this City Builders episode, Mark and Dorian discuss recent circumstances that are transforming cities all over North America.   In some cases changes have been negative, however, some changes have been considered to be positive.  What is the new paradigm?  Fo...

In this City Builders Podcast, Mark and Dorian discuss films, and when a city becomes a significant character.  There are many great movies, filmed in amazing locations around the world.   But, how many are oriented in a way that the location becomes the star of the show?    These are the types of movies that Mark and Dorian discuss in this episode. Enjoy a unique discussion as the City Builders u...

The City Builders discuss the best NHL and NBA arenas throughout North America.   Arenas, in our cities, are an important part of city life. Millions of fans, gather often in arenas to see sports activities, concerts, and other large events.  The discussion in this episode of City Builders is focused on how those arenas are designed and located to accentuate the fan experience as well as become as...

The City Builders discuss the many assets of the City of Fayetteville,  Bentonville, Rogers and Springdale and the regional polycentric area in Arkansas, also known as NWA.   Mark and Dorian had a surprise guest join in to the discussion in downtown Bentonville -  John Simmerman from Active Towns.  An in depth conversation developed on many aspects of greenways in NWA and beyond. Special emphasis...

The City Builders discuss the many assets of the City of Fayetteville and the regional polycentric area in Arkansas, also known as NWA The focus of this episode is an overview of a  recent Archive DS Global Urban Study.  Mark and Dorian share their impressions and observations of Fayetteville and the region. Take in their conversation, which highlights thoughts and ideas on various elements of the...

City Builders and the continued discussion of a huge transition in Detroit Detroit's Renaissance Center.....Rethinking an Icon.   the history. Part 2 After nearly 50 years as a major anchor and focal point on the Detroit River's edge in downtown Detroit,  the Renaissance Center is undergoing a significant transformation.  With over 5 million square feet, the complex,  once home to one of...

While on the Spring Global Urban Study, with a focus on the Burgundy region, the City Builders, Mark and Dorian, provide an update and overview of their latest observation of the city of Paris.  Including insight into, cafes, retail, streets, parks, public spaces, the growing non-motorized system and the rebuilt Notre Dame Cathedral. They both know Paris very well,  and enjoyed seeing the latest u...

The City Builders check out Cincinnati.....a Lake Belt hot spot on the Ohio River! This episode is an overview of an Archive DS Global Urban Study of Cincinnati, USA.  Mark and Dorian discuss their initial impressions and observations of Cinci - Over-the-Rhine, Findlay Market, The Ohio Riverfront, Fountain Square, and overall city activity. Take in the conversation between Mark and Dorian, highlig...

While in the city of Lyon, France, the City Builders, Mark and Dorian, provide an in-depth view of the amazing assets of the city  - Rivers and mountains, streets and parks, churches and public spaces.  They conclude that this city is exceptional - an amazing urban experience! Question: why do so many people miss touring Lyon?    Travelers have numerous reasons.  Paris gets a great deal of emphasi...

The City Builders check out Charlotte! The focus of this episode is an overview of a past Archive DS Global Urban Study in the Charlotte, USA.   In this episode, Mark and Dorian discuss their initial impressions and observations of Charlotte Take in the conversation between Mark and Dorian, highlighting their thoughts on a number of urban conditions and elements of this southern American cIty.  __...

Here is another City Builders episode The focus of this episode is an initial overview of the recent Archive DS Global Urban Study in the Burgundy Region of France.   In this episode, Mark and Dorian discuss the first couple of days of the Burgundy region Global Urban Study (GUS) Take in the conversation between Mark and Dorian, highlighting many important aspects, ideas and plans for this urban i...

The City Builders discuss Public Space and what NOT to do when creating it!  And then lend insight into what works best for great public spaces. We love public space, right?   These are places like squares, parks, open spaces that we enjoy when we are in an urban district.  Whats makes them good...or even great?  And what places make us shake our head and walk away? In this episode, Mark and Doria...