Ever since my Dad lived here in 1974, I've loved the Watergate apartments, which I myself have called home since the fall of 1986. I like the proximity of the market and the police and fire departments, the package accepting service provided by the Clipper Club, the congeniality of the Watergate residents; I like the proximity of Watergate to SF; I love the Emeryville climate. So when, after 17 years I decided I wanted a change, instead of moving elsewhere I simply moved a block to a second Watergate condo (in 2003). Although enamored of the "penthouse" apartment even before the sale, I commented to the real estate agent (Mr. Crouch) that the carpet was warn to the point of looking shabby. He assured me that Watergate would be getting new carpet soon. That sealed the deal. So you can imagine, seven years later, how eager I was to see the new carpet samples. It was a long-awaited day. The wall paint and new lighting fixtures are noticeable improvements to the hallways on the 3rd floor of 8 Captain. I am also OK with the carpet tile concept, which has shown itself to be, if not a luxurious alternative to carpet, at least a very practical and long-wearing one. However, the Option A and B patterns that are in place, and with which we will be saddled for at least the next decade, are in my opinion, grotesque, cheap-looking. The essence of a TV test pattern gone awry in the case of Pattern A. Pattern B is worse: it captures the aftermath of a particularly potent hangover. I would normally not be so blunt, but my reaction to what is about to be foisted upon Watergate residents, who have had no say in the matter, is one of extreme disappointment. I would prefer to retain the shabby carpet that I was so eager to see replaced seven years ago in the hopes of eventually getting something nice. I've been waiting a LONG time for what I hoped would make it worth the wait; am most disappointed in the taste of those in charge, however well-intentioned. I hope we can do better as far as carpet choices go, that this is not a fait accompli.
Colleen Downing
cdowning@sidley.com
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