Question 1: Describe an unusual and interesting building you would like to visit

Sample Answer: Oh, that's a great question! I'd really love to visit the Habitat 67 in Montreal. I saw pictures of it online and it just looks completely bonkers! It's this massive housing complex made up of these interconnected cubes, all stacked on top of each other in this really chaotic, yet strangely beautiful way. It's supposed to be a utopian vision of urban living, designed back in the 60s, and it's just so visually striking, unlike anything I've ever seen. I'm fascinated by architecture, especially stuff that’s experimental and pushes boundaries, and this building definitely does that. I imagine it would be amazing to explore the different levels and see how the cubes connect, plus just the whole setting on the St. Lawrence River must be pretty incredible. It's a bit of a modernist masterpiece, but with a really unique, almost playful, feel to it – definitely a place I'd love to check out in person.

Question 1: Why do some people choose to build houses by themselves?

Sample Answer: Well, I think there are a few reasons. Some people are really into DIY and find building a house incredibly satisfying – a massive project to really sink your teeth into, you know? Plus, it can be a lot cheaper than hiring a contractor, especially if they already have some building skills or are willing to learn. Then there's the whole creative control aspect; you get to design exactly what you want, down to the smallest details, which is something you wouldn't always get with a pre-built house or even working with an architect. Finally, for some, it might be about a connection to the land or a desire for a really unique, personalized home that reflects their personality. It's a big undertaking though, definitely not for everyone!

Question 2: What factors do you consider when choosing a house or an apartment?

Sample Answer: Well, it really depends on my circumstances at the time, you know? If I'm on a tight budget, affordability is definitely the biggest factor – rent or mortgage payments, council tax, utilities… all that adds up quickly. Location is also super important; I'd want to be close to public transport, maybe a good supermarket, and ideally not too far from work or university. Then there's the size and layout; I need enough space for my stuff, and a decent kitchen is a must. For an apartment, I'd prioritize things like building security and amenities – a gym or a communal garden would be nice. If it's a house, I'd look at the garden, parking, and maybe even the potential for future extensions. Ultimately, it's a balancing act between all these things, and what's most important changes depending on my priorities at that specific point in my life.

Question 3: Do you think a city’s buildings affect its vibe or atmosphere?

Sample Answer: Oh, absolutely! I think a city's buildings are a huge part of its vibe. Like, imagine a city with only really modern glass skyscrapers – it's going to feel completely different from a city with lots of historic cobblestone streets and old, charming buildings. The architecture really sets the tone. For example, a city with a lot of ornate, baroque buildings feels much more grand and opulent, whereas a city with lots of brutalist concrete structures might feel a bit cold and impersonal. Even the colours of the buildings play a part, don't they? A city with bright, colourful buildings feels more lively and cheerful than one with mostly grey or brown buildings. So yeah, I think the buildings are massively influential in shaping a city's atmosphere.

Question 4: Do you think old buildings should be preserved?

Sample Answer: Well, it's a really complex issue, isn't it? On the one hand, preserving old buildings definitely keeps a sense of history and culture alive. They're often beautiful structures, and losing them means losing a part of a city's identity, you know? Think of all the stories those walls could tell! But on the other hand, maintaining them can be incredibly expensive. Sometimes it's just not financially viable, especially if a building is structurally unsound or in a really run-down state. Plus, you could argue that keeping old buildings might hinder development – the land could be used for something more modern and beneficial to the community, like new housing or businesses. So I think it really depends on the specific building and its context. Some are definitely worth the effort to preserve, others maybe not so much. It's all about finding a balance, I guess.