Preservation is an important part of our lives. It talks about sustaining our present to give homage to the past with the objective of maintaining an identity that relates to a specific place and time. In the book of Lamentations the author starts by saying that everything is worthless, it is all vanity. While these words seem a bit harsh, its essence proclaims an outward perspective that humans have to focus so much on the surface of ourselves and the many things in life that surround us. But this isn't all that bad. It is for the benefit of harmony that we seek a pleasant view in our journey through life, because it's good for us. Living in a clean environment, etc.
In preserving a place however, it is great to read the quote from the first chapter of Keeping Time that says "That which exists and that which definitely existed." To me this talks about an experience where a group of people agree is valuable to society, hence the reason it is preserved. In other words, the bigger the moment is, the bigger the reason to keep it alive. Preservation also is an educated approach to maintain things. Maintenance. The type of thing that is needed to sustain and keep something in its nature-most state of existence.
With regards to the new Marriot Hotel I agree with the comments made in class today that support its construction because the current building are too damaged to provide any benefit to the area where it is located. However, I would appreciate it more if the hotel changed the color of the facade to a charcoal color because it would add nice contrast to the corner building that is going to be kept. I look forward to reading more about preservation and learn more on the subject. Great class!!
Sustaining the present to give homage to the past!! Important comment tied nicely into identity of place and time.
ReplyDeleteHow should we deal with maintenance and where is the distinction between maintaining the buildings on Wisconsin Avenue and completely reconstructing them?