I couldn't agree with your viewpoint more. In the rapid development of downtown Toronto, historical landmarks have lost their place, and all preserved buildings, with their so-called "shells," have lost their own historical narratives. As a complete structure, every material and structure should reflect the unique characteristics of that building. This concerns the technology of its construction and the aesthetics popular during its respective era. The most fascinating aspect of historical buildings is sometimes their ability to evoke the scenes of their original use without needing words—they are stories in themselves. Yet, in Toronto now, there are fewer and fewer buildings that can tell such stories, which is regrettable for the city.
In contrast, Montreal and Quebec City excel much more in preserving buildings from an architectural conservation perspective. Walking through the streets of Quebec, one can truly feel the charm of the city and the historical legacy left by the French in this region. Furthermore, from a sustainability standpoint, demolishing buildings outright and using completely new materials is not environmentally friendly. As an architect, it's crucial, both for environmental reasons and budget considerations, to reconsider the materials that can be reused from existing buildings.
Great quick read by Eric Rodrigues on the various ways that built heritage adds value as part of urban planning and architectural development.
“In a rapidly evolving world, where modernity often takes precedence, the importance of preserving heritage architecture cannot be overstated. Heritage architecture serves as a tangible link to our past, embodying the cultural, historical, and architectural essence of a bygone era. This article delves into the profound cultural significance of heritage architecture and why its preservation is crucial for maintaining our connection with the past”
“Form not Content Dictates the “Smart” City” by Dhiru A. Thadani.
“Future neighborhoods and cities must be designed as if there is no or little external energy available, similar to the places that tourists continue to admire and visit. Places that are livable without excessive energy demands and where beauty prevails. Environments where the urban pattern encourages walking as the primary form of transportation to access human needs. Where civic life thrives and daily human interaction is serendipitous.”
Read the article:
https://lnkd.in/dJQFCzdF#urbanism#traditionalarchitecture#traditionalurbanism#urbandesign#urbanplanning#smartcity#citymaking#architecture
