Name: Duncan Baker-Brown
Profession: I’m an architect, and I teach architecture at the University of Brighton. My speciality is sustainable development. I’m focussed on creating an architectural language which reflects the culture of our times. And in doing that I can’t avoid the question: can we exist within the natural world without destroying it? Can we live in harmony with it? I’m on a mission to prove that green architecture does not have to mean hobbit houses; that it can be of serious good quality design. And affordable too: we’re trying to create amazing environments for everyone, not just the elite.
Are you local? Yes. I’ve lived here since 1990. I came from Nunhead in South East London, and was born in Essex.
What do you think of Lewes? I moved here almost by accident when I was studying in Brighton and found cheap affordable accommodation here. I was immediately cynical about the place. It seemed to be full of people who didn’t have to work because they’d already made it, and I felt out of sorts, maybe because I hadn’t. But I think it’s improved, especially since 1999-2000 when it started becoming more culturally vibrant. I think the Rodin exhibition had a lot to do with that.
What’s your favourite pub? The Lewes Arms. I like the shape of it and the fact it’s full of a good cross-section of interesting, opinionated people.
What’s your poison? Guinness. My grandfather used to drink it, I like the fact it’s got more body, and I’m fond of Ireland.
Waitrose or Tesco? Waitrose when I have to. Otherwise the fishmonger in the Riverside and Middle Farm.
What do you think about traffic wardens? They’re brilliant. We’ve got to think about the way we live and the biggest carbon emissions are caused by car usage. If you’re a pedestrian, wardens are no problem.