In an age when we are obsessed with the glass and aluminum monstrosities we call architecture, we are slowly eroding our architectural heritage – buildings from a time when buildings were constructed to last generations. Yes, many of these buildings aren’t that eco-friendly, and may lack modern conveniences, but they had aesthetic appeal that many modern buildings lack. The worst form of architectural heresy may be facadicide, where all that is left of the historic building is its facade. The photo below is a prime example – the buildings have been demolished, with the steel scaffolding holding up the old thing left – its facade.
Is there any historic value left in this thin veil of a bygone era? I get that old buildings sit on prime realty, and that a thirty storey building houses a lot of people. But what is left of the city when all its architectural heritage has been eroded? What happens when a city full of high-rise leaves nothing but shadows? Is a building not more than the sum of its four surrounding walls?
There are glimmers of light, people who help rejuvenate historic buildings, like the Tower Automotive Building. Once the tallest building in Toronto, this 100-year old building now houses the Museum of Contemporary Art in Toronto.
working by hand 