That's a great point. On my last trip to Poland, many locals referred to the blocs as "disgusting communistic buildings", no doubt coloured by memories of Soviet oppression (fair enough).

Thanks for highlighting a different perspective. Your description of communities with housing above local amenities actually sounds delightful. In Australia where I live, this "shop-top housing" is being encouraged as a practical way to increase housing density and support local business (everything old is new again!)

Great article, I shall subscribe.