The Bold Red Doors near 4th and Burrard

Last week I went on a photowalk (What!! You were on a photowalk?? Shocking I know) over near 4th and Burrard while some fine folks did some maintenance on the car. While wandering the alleys of the area I came across The Opus Art Supplies building with these super bold red doors and windows set against these blue-gray walls. I freaking loved the vibrant contrast and it is right up my alley of contrast and Juxtaposition.

In typical Alley Project fashion there was discarded wooden pallets, a dumpster, (you know I love me my dumpsters) and the signs of wear and tear added a layer at a time. It’s the kind of dirty and gritty beauty you only find in the back alleys—seedy, smelly, and entirely overlooked by most. I love that while these spaces might not be conventionally pretty, but they’re filled to the brim with character and unexpected glory.

I love the constant reminder of how these functional and utilitarian urban spaces can grow to have this particular aesthetic value that can only be created through many small actions organically over time.