When most people walk through the New York City, they take photos of each other, of tall buildings, of the Central Park, … and other touristy randomness (I did that too). But, when I was chilling with an old friend this past week, I felt and urge to take a photo of a bike rack. Yes, if you know me, you’re not surprised, and if you don’t know me, then you either thinks I am really cool or a nut.

This round rack, hooked up to a subway went is a great way to utilize previously wasted space, while keeping the homeless off, while also looking quite slick and all at a low cost of some welded steel.

I was looking at this tool and I realized that people who can see problems and are interested in solving those problem will find work anywhere, anytime. Think about it? It’s not likely that the city of NY requested a new set of bike racks, and then some awfully flamboyant designer with an Apple computer and square glasses set off to design the next most exciting rack. Most likely somebody wanted to bike to work, but the nearest place to park was either inside his/her crummy office space, or a few subway rides away. Sitting at the office one day, while doodling thumbs and waiting for a fresh Dilbert cartoon to pop up, this lucky someone shouted “Eureka!” and set off to design a new parking space.

Do you thinking living in NYC helps, or should it be possible to create something useful anywhere, as long as there is a stimulus to get it out on the market?

Original file from Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kirillzubovsky/4672108145/sizes/l/