Celebrating the Old and Relishing the New

7/19/2010



Europe is so rich in culture that touring its cities and countryside can only inspire awe. With the many buildings and structures I encounter I am struck by the dates etched on their walls. Some of these date back to the early centuries AD, making even our local 18th century buildings seem current. Their people can boast the skill to create structures that were built to last but most of all, the wisdom to value and preserve these masterpieces of their race.


It is wonderful that the people who live amid the historical treasures can see beyond their daily grind and choose to preserve the styles of their heritage. They refuse to sacrifice the past to the lure of modernity and convenience.


In most of the countryside of France, there are village rules that restrict the kinds of improvements the owners can make to existing buildings, including limiting the structure’s footprint and its height. This move helps maintain the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. In the quaint towns outside Geneva, the old chalet-style houses are still very much in use. Along the quaysides of Venice, the beautiful antique buildings are still viable homes, hotels, or workplaces.


We do have our own historical architectural treasures but many are being torn down haphazardly, not only because there are no laws against doing so, but also there is a grave lack of regard for our heritage.


It saddens me whenever I see our old edifices being demolished under the guise of modernization. It is not a matter of replicating what was once lost; it is all about preserving that which we have left. In architectural school, all students are obliged to study the history of buildings and structures. However, there is no subject dealing directly with their preservation. There is little effort to inspire respect and appreciation for the old structures. Perhaps that is why our young builders are quick to design high-rise buildings, modern malls, or even adapt styles from foreign shores. Very few are interested in reviving the glory of our own past.