Reader seeking solution to shrinking space
I wonder if I could be the first to mention a possibly new phenomenon
-- the faux “mansionization” of Burbank, also known as Manhattan
Beach Syndrome. Within the past three years, at least three formerly
sensible neighbors have decided that their respectable backyards were
taking up too much space. Upon this sudden discovery, they decided to
turn this space into an uber-house, eliminating what little greenery
they had.
With this mention, several questions arise: Why is this happening?
Do our oversized sport-utility vehicles make us feel small when we
enter our homes? Have we ourselves gotten larger? Do the homes on
“Joe Millionaire” and rap videos make us feel bad? Do we just hate
gardens and garages? Shouldn’t people who want bigger homes simply
move to areas with bigger homes? Does the city encourage this, in a
need for permit money?
If I’m going to lose what little views I have of nature’s beauty,
I’d at least like some psychological compensation and have these
questions answered. Please help.
MICHAEL HEWITT
Burbank