According to David Hamilton, clerk of the legislative assembly, the views and offices at the legislature are so nice members have been known to fight over them.

Drew Williams, the premier's director of communications, stressed that he didn't want an article that made it sound like members were spoiled, lounging in overpriced digs.

He says he knows of no coin tosses or arm wrestles for offices. But he does say, "It is a privilege to work here," echoing sentiments expressed by Great Slave MLA Bill Braden, who claims he has the best view of all, even if his office also happens to be the smallest.

"Look," Braden said, waving his hand at his view of Frame Lake. There is nothing to suggest a city is close, he said.

Braden, a former reporter with News of the North, has pictures of his view in every season. He pulled his old camera from his desk to prove that even in the midst of meetings, and important decisions, the photojournalist in him is alive and well.

It is all in the design that members don't look out onto the city. Their view is the lake, and supposed to remind them that every decision they make is for all the NWT, and not just Yellowknife.

Some get more trees than lake in their view. The trees are amazing, though, if you think about it, Braden said. The design planners back in 1991, decided that not one tree or shrub would be cut to make room for the building unless it was impossible to avoid it.

The architects' vision was that the building should look as if it was part of the environment.

The result?

"You never have a bad day here," Williams said.

It is a romantic place, he said. "It is humbling."

The premier's office is divided in two sections -- serious office, and a more laid back area, with comfy chairs, like a living room. Premier Stephen Kakfwi has a clear, expansive view of Frame Lake.

But the speaker's office appears to be the big one. And the view is of Yellowknife. This is part of the design, too. Symbolism is everywhere.

"His office is positioned towards the entrance of the building so that he can see people arrive," the official word goes.

"Once you figure it all out," Williams said at one point, referring to the various jobs and offices, "you know you've been here too long."