RDG Planning & Design’s Post

The case for historic districts as investments in Erie's future Historic overlay districts (HODs) are more than a nod to the past—they are an investment in our cities’ cultural, economic, and environmental future. By protecting historic buildings and neighborhoods, these districts preserve architectural character, boost property values, and foster sustainable practices like adaptive reuse. In Erie, HODs like PACA and the Erie Federal Courthouse exemplify how thoughtful preservation can enhance community pride and drive economic growth. While challenges exist, the benefits—stronger identities, revitalized neighborhoods, and a more sustainable future—are undeniable. Preserving history isn’t just about honoring what came before; it’s about shaping what comes next.

The City of Erie - Citywide Historic Resource Survey will identify, record, and evaluate our community's historic resources, buildings and places of historic, architectural, and cultural significance that merit future preservation. These surveys provide valuable information that helps communities: preserve cultural heritage, inform planning and development, facilitate historic designation, support adaptive reuse projects, engage and educate the community. Public engagement sessions will be very important to the uncovering of other relevant historical topics, sites, etc... #CityofErie #Preservation #AdaptiveReuse https://lnkd.in/ehbXyYUR

Historic England published their updated guide this year to repurposing old historic buildings, including a roadmap and key technical considerations for each stage of the development process. As specialists at The Westcombe Group in restoring listed buildings to create beautiful homes and spaces fit for modern day life, we’re pleased to see these skills championed by such an important public body. Their platform ‘Heritage Works for Housing’ is available to view at https://lnkd.in/eTXbTnqF   #HistoricEngland #HistoricBuildings #Development #Housing #Property

Climate change is impacting us all in so many ways. This latest news from the CA fires is tough, help if you can. Los Angeles Wildfires Destroy Architecturally Significant Homes Recent wildfires in Los Angeles have destroyed over 12,000 structures, including more than 30 architecturally significant buildings designed by renowned architects like Henry Mather Greene and Richard Neutra. Historic properties such as the Andrew McNally House and the Benedict and Nancy Freedman House have been lost, sparking deep emotional responses from locals and international architectural enthusiasts. Efforts to rebuild are underway, with architects and planners discussing strategies for reconstruction that respect the original designs while incorporating modern, fire-safe adaptations. Concerns remain about maintaining the unique character and community spirit of affected neighborhoods amid potential redevelopment by speculators. https://lnkd.in/dm5YFJsf

In the realm of urban planning, acknowledging and preserving our historical heritage is essential, not only to safeguard our architectural treasures but also to confront and honor all aspects of our history, including those that are painful. Cities across the United States are finding innovative ways to embrace their heritage and leverage it for community development and economic growth, while also facing the darker chapters of our history head-on. Consider Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia—two cities with deep historical roots intertwined with the complexities of slavery. Charleston’s Historic District not only preserves the beauty of its antebellum architecture but also actively interprets its history of slavery through educational tours and museum exhibits. This approach not only attracts tourism but also fosters a more comprehensive understanding and discussion of the city’s full history. Similarly, Savannah’s historic preservation efforts include the preservation of sites like the Owens-Thomas House, which includes one of the oldest urban slave quarters in the South. By preserving these sites and incorporating them into the historical narrative, Savannah offers a more complete story of its past, enhancing educational opportunities and community understanding. Preserving our historical heritage, especially aspects that are painful, such as sites associated with slavery, requires sensitivity and a commitment to truth-telling. It is not without challenges, as it often involves confronting uncomfortable truths and facilitating difficult conversations. However, these efforts are crucial for healing and understanding. We must approach historical preservation with a dual focus on celebrating our architectural and cultural heritage, while also confronting and learning from our past. This balanced approach can lead to more resilient and inclusive urban communities.

🌟 SSRIA member feature Friday!🌟 Building on their initial discussion over the future of the former Royal Alberta Museum, Reimagine Architects are working towards developing an alternative solution to demolition. ⬇️ Read more below from a recent Edify Magazine interview.

Albany, California, is a treasure trove of history, particularly evident in its historic homes that paint a picture of the past. These residences not only offer unique architectural charm but also serve as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. Exploring Albany's historic districts can be like walking through a living museum, where each home tells its own story. For those interested in buying or investing, historic homes in Albany offer several benefits. They often occupy prime locations in well-established neighborhoods that rarely lose their appeal. Additionally, owning a historic home can be a point of pride and a commitment to preserving a piece of history. However, potential buyers should be aware of the responsibilities that come with owning such properties. Historic homes can require more maintenance and care, and there may be restrictions on renovations to preserve their architectural integrity. Whether you're a history enthusiast or looking for a home with character, Albany's historic homes offer a unique opportunity to connect with the past while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere. #AlbanyCA #HistoricHomes #RealEstateInvestment #ArchitecturalHeritage #HomeBuying #PreserveHistory #UniqueHomes #RealEstateDiscoveries

Often in urban planning work, planners hear from (generally older) residents in public hearings about how #parking in downtown areas is insufficient, *because* people often are unable to park directly in front of their destination, and instead, they complain about having to park a few blocks away. This clever video clip explains how this is a function of having actually human-scale environments in downtowns when, in reality, people in America often have no complaints about walking the same amount when parking and shopping at big box stores built to the automotive-scale. This is NOT to advocate for car-scale design but rather to empower planners in their public education efforts about how to explain responsible human-scale design to an utterly carbrained American public: https://lnkd.in/e772CzTW

Whispers of the past, silenced architecture The preservation of historical buildings is vital to maintaining cultural heritage, yet many have suffered over the years from unregulated alterations that strip away their original essence. These changes, often driven by contemporary needs or neglect, can compromise architectural integrity and erase significant historical features. To reclaim their authenticity, restoration efforts should: ·      Focus on meticulous research and adherence to preservation guidelines. Documenting original designs, materials, and craftsmanship. ·      Employing skilled artisans and modern technology to faithfully recreate lost elements. ·      Adaptive reuse strategies also play a crucial role, repurposing buildings while preserving their historical character. Community involvement and advocacy for stricter preservation laws are essential to prevent further loss and ensure that future generations can appreciate these architectural treasures as they were intended—rich in history and cultural significance. By balancing conservation with adaptive reuse, we can revive historical buildings and their stories for generations to come.

Very few historic buildings were built as a direct consequence of legislation, however, in the mid 19th century the Public Libraries Act (1850) gave many towns and cities the opportunity of building public libraries through a halfpenny levy, giving the population free access to books, knowledge and information for the very first time. One of the first free libraries to be built in England was this one in Lichfield. Designed by George Bidlake and Henry Lovatt (who are perhaps more well known for their many buildings in Wolverhampton), it was built between 1857-59 in the fashionable Renaissance or Italianate style. Victoria and Albert had commissioned their Isle of Wight retreat (Osborne House) in a similar style (1851), which suddenly made it extremely desirable to wealthy industrialists and their architects, as well as those who commissioned public buildings. The ashlar plaque above the main door indicates the building was once both a Free Library and Museum, although it had ceased to be a museum by the 1960s and closed as a library in the 1990s. It has been occupied by the council since then, mainly operating as a Registry Office. In a city largely dominated by the 18th century, this unusual building demonstrates a progressive will by both the architects and their client, which kickstarted a legacy that we still benefit from today. It’s clear that the public library, as an institution, is unfortunately in decline, but let’s not forget the heady days when, as an idea, it provided access to education and the potential for social mobility on a scale largely unprecedented before our post-modern age. With this in mind, we should continue to cherish the built monuments to that idea for as long as we can! #heritage #conservation #architecture #italianate #libraries #staffordshire #thefabricofplaces