ERNO GOLDFINGER

Goldfinger wins another point for Brutalism! Architect Erno Goldfinger was immortalized as a supervillain by Ian Fleming for demolishing Victorian houses to make room for his rough constructions. Goldfinger's early 1960s project, Metro Central Heights (formerly Alexander Fleming House), was slated for demolition, but the buildings have been recognized as important works in the Brutalist movement. The complex has just been awarded a grade II listing for national preservation. Goldfinger's Trellick Tower has also been rescued from the wrecking ball. Goldfinger threatened to sue Fleming over the novel, but backed down when the author suggested "Goldprick" as an alternative. Goldfinger's Central Heights was eventually closed due to "sick building syndrome", because many inhabitants suffered health problems- almost seems worthy as a supervillain plot! "Man has climbed Mount Everest, gone to the bottom of the ocean. He's fired rockets at the Moon, split the atom, achieved miracles in every field of human endeavor... except crime!"

Still need to enter Spy Vibe's summer contest to win vintage prizes? The deadline has been extended to August 16th. Details here. Get ready to meet MIKI ZERO, a Japanese fashion model and spy from 1965! I've written a novel inspired by Spy Vibe. More info at my website here.