On the concept of beautiful living

Paris is a beautify city. Everything is very nice to look and is esthetically pleasing.

I would think that most calgarians would like to see some cultural influx into the city, a change in architectural style that reflects the sophistication of Calgary itself. At least a modern version of urban design and not the classical French influence. However, having seen the size of the apartments, I wonder if we would sacrifice the space we afford ourselves for beautiful cramped living. Given that c-trains are too crowded and that yards are too small I find it hard to believe that people would be ok with an apartment that could only fit a 5-in-1 microwave/oven/washer/dryer/tv and a parking spot that requires the George Jetson suitcase car. After having to shower in a space smaller than my office closet which can't fit all my books, I'm not sure if I could.

We could bring beauty to Calgary instead. The proble I think is that it costs money. Money that people would rather spend on other, more practical things, like homeless shelters, public transportation, snow removal, etc. That and when a somewhat artistic effort is attempted, half (or more) don't like it, don't think it's necessary and that it's a waste.

Maybe gold plated governmental buildings is a waste. But I'm sure there's a middle ground.