performalism n.— «Grobman and Neuman call the new trend in architecture “performalism,” a term that is derived from the words “performance” (the way in which a building and urban planning in general function, and the degree to which they meet our...
landscraper n.— «The proposed development on the site is a nine-story, 220,000 square foot space occupying roughly half of the south side of its block on Boylston Street. While aesthetics are often subjective, local architects have taken to calling...
flimsy n.— «“About 70 per cent of urban waste is organic matter that needs to be composted for use as manure,” Mr Mahinda says. The rest of the garbage consists of about 10 per cent plastics of which the hard plastics are recycled, leaving the...
A Wisconsin woman is trying to remember a term for paths in the grass created by pedestrians taking shortcuts. Grant has an answer for her, straight from the jargon of urban planning professionals. The caller also wants recommendations for a good...
right-hook collision n.— «Cyclist in bike lane going straight and a vehicle turning right are common accidents in busy traffic areas; these are so common that they even have a name for them, “right-hook collisions.” Right hook collision are among...
A woman wonders about a phrase from her past: “I’m going to beat you like a red-headed stepchild.” Martha and Grant discuss gingerism, or prejudice against redheads. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Red-Headed Stepchild” Hello, you...