The interior architecture of the Astor Hotel is magnificent. Built in 1920, the main entry areas are so elegant they have to really be looked at in detail to appreciate just how beautiful this structure really is. The outside of the building isn't the prettiest to see, but looks on the outside don't always portray what is on the inside. Many of the oval interiors have amazing crown molding and stained glass is a sight to see. Some of the lighting has been updated for electrical reasons. The light fixtures that are attached to the walls and the chandeliers look gorgeous as well. Updates include carpeting, interior walls of rooms as well as furniture, for obvious reasons, this is a hotel after all.
For section 106, I would think being a hotel makes it a little easier for the public to say whether they are worthy of being historic. Despite many people staying from out of the city, there are thousands of people who are from Milwaukee that stay at the Astor for multiple reasons. They get to see the elegance of this hotel, more than many people might see other historic buildings. Not only are they seeing the interior space, but they are doing it for at least a 24-hour period, sometimes more depending on their length of stay.
The interior elegance is what makes this worthy of the status of historical designation. Many people, not just from Milwaukee, can see the preserved space which makes it all the better and brings and interest in Milwaukee itself. I would agree that this should stay intact as historical. Many people when they come to a hotel will realize the space around them, at some point during the trip. Whether they have to wait in line or are just walking around the area, they will notice pieces that are intriguing and will ask employees about the history of the hotel and struck conversations about the building itself.
images:
http://www.theastorhotel.com/
I would definitely agree with you about the beauty of this hotel, but did you only look at photographs or did you visit it yourself? As gorgeous as I think the Astor is, I have been there many times and I feel like it isn't taken care of as well as it should be.
ReplyDeleteExcellent point Kristina. I think that is something that we should address in terms of the local and national designation. What is the role of the owner in terms of upkeep. The Astor has great bones, but it often appears shabby around the edges where it could be ultimately fabulous. Obviously as you all have read, the government doesn't necessarily make provisions for protecting the interiors, which might be a draw back?
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