Here at the loud paper headquarters we guiltily buy into architecture and design’s allure. We occasionally bask in that requisite media-mediated environment, captivated by the sexy and the interesting. Designers are sexy and interesting. New forms are fabulous. Glossy magazines are the pinnacle of graphic excitement. The whole thing is an overwhelming gleam of glamour, bright lights and press junkets, except, of course, when it is not.

Some aspects of architecture and design are just boring. Think building codes, professional practice, education, vapor barriers, PowerPoint presentations, big box retail, office Christmas parties and Architectural Record.

For this issue we are collecting pieces that tackle supposedly-boring subjects with wit and insight.

Please reply with concise intentions (about a paragraph or two) for articles by December 24, 2004 for consideration. If you are interested in writing a book or music review, or have any other questions, please drop a line.

There are tons of book and music reviews: Todd Gannon fits Dave Eggers into the world of architecture and John Southern rediscovers the Dischord roster.