Historic preservation is moving beyond efforts to save grand, classic structures from demolition to include entire neighborhoods, says Stephanie Meeks president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
In her new book, According to The Past and Future City, Meeks points out that older buildings are adaptable, and can be turned into mixed-use space that increases density. This can help alleviate shortages of affordable housing, she contends.
Meeks argues for the retention and expansion of historic tax credits to preserve this old building stock, which isn’t necessarily iconic or especially grand. She also says there should be a focus on stories that aren’t recognized or commonly told—particularly concerning diverse ethnic groups and traditions.
In addition, Meeks would like to see more effort to preserve small, independent businesses in urban neighborhoods.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jul 8, 2020
Standards for reducing risk of COVID-19 in senior living communities
AIA releases strategies and illustrations for the sector.
Codes and Standards | Jul 6, 2020
Guide presents benefits of public-private partnerships
Discusses process from project conception to construction.
Codes and Standards | Jul 1, 2020
COVID-19 public health guidelines may be downplaying building systems solutions
Emphasis on cleaning surfaces overlooks importance of mechanical infrastructure.
Codes and Standards | Jun 30, 2020
WELL building institute steps up health safety rating for hotels and resorts
Certification body forms advisory group of industry leaders and health experts.
Codes and Standards | Jun 30, 2020
7 must reads for the AEC industry today: June 30, 2020
Affordable housing comes to the Bay Area and this is not the end of cities.
Codes and Standards | Jun 29, 2020
Mandated building retrofits are necessary to meet climate crisis
Performance standards could greatly reduce GHG emissions.
Codes and Standards | Jun 29, 2020
New buildings can fall short of designed performance
Similar structures can produce different energy usage results.
Codes and Standards | Jun 25, 2020
Arc offers tools, analytics for safe workplace re-entry
Platform helps sustainability teams to collect data, benchmark progress, measure impact, and improve performance.
Codes and Standards | Jun 24, 2020
New API enables design and construction technology platforms to connect
Construction Specifications Institute offers “digital classification engine.”
Codes and Standards | Jun 23, 2020
State lawmakers encouraging transition to heat pumps for building heating
Policies aim to replace gas heaters with electric units.
