We live in an increasingly commodified world, not as though I needed to tell you that. It is at once inviting say the luxury of driving to a large centre where every home bound product is waiting to be sold and a little disconcerting for the smaller business. Sydney is rapidly going down this path not to mention the whole country though I doubt a large Bunnings will end up in a small country town of a few hundred. The big warehouse model is the future those lots of luxury that pop up where there is enough space. Walked past a home centre today in the more industrial part of Artarmon and witnessed this oasis in the less public transport accessible area and thought that is pretty big and a good fifteen minute walk from the nearest train station. Big place, big money and probably nice to visit but can’t resist that little cafe in Redfern that is tiny and independent. There is always fear to accompany the bigger corporate monoliths but in the recesses there is so many smaller operators coming up with something a little more down to earth and inviting. Have to support the under dog and the coffee is way better too.