He said the company had carried out maintenance on Arlington House - which comprises 142 privately-owned flats - but the proposed development went beyond basic work.

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Living conditions in these are basic at best - a one-room family-house with a tiny shed-like kitchen-conversion and often no private toilet - but it is this unusual mix of ancient aristocratic architecture and current-day, salt-of-the-earth locals that gives the hutong alleys their unique character.

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Idealab's young firms share basic office overheads--everything from photocopiers and accounting services to an in-house designer.

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The London Olympic Committee should be praised for its recognition of one of the most basic common-sense elements of event presentation: Event energy, legitimacy and enthusiasm are enhanced with a packed house.

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