Walking through the Shaughnessy village, many colours and textures stand out to me. The contrasts created between the buildings’ various materials pique my interest as rigid lines intercept tree shadows and community gardens. The village’s historical stone homes, glass skyscrapers, and concrete streets come together to form street corners and one-way streets— all equally belonging in harmony.  

Having studied here for years, I have navigated the central streets of the Shaughnessy village frequently, however; I have rarely taken the time to observe my surroundings. The buildings and residential homes seem to date themselves, with ornate staircases or LED lights. On my walk to the Architecture Museum, on Du Fort Street, I come across apartment building 1240. First, I wonder who lives there, centralizing my thoughts towards the human life that inhabits the structure. On the curb is a group of young adults with suitcases. Maybe there is an AirBnb inside? Afterall, the apartment is ideally located within steps of the highway. Contrasting their shiny suitcases, I notice the building’s ornate exterior decor— a crumbling stone pattern, likely from the 1960’s. No longer fully painted nor properly stacked, parts of the structure have fallen and disorganized the neat pattern it once was. Mesmerized by the material’s ability to embody disorder with a single fallen piece, I take a picture and note down the address.

According to Google Maps, the wall had already collapsed in 2007— 18 years ago. Never fixed nor replaced, the ornate wall has created its own new patterns, mapping its fall throughout the years. To replace it would mean removing every movable piece and starting from scratch.

Somehow, like the mix-matched building in the area, this decor has its place in the Shaughnessy village, too.