Wonder What Else is Under There?

modernized victorian building
Modernization falling away.

A storm blew down a large piece of aluminum trim from this older building, revealing a highly decorative carved limestone cornice. Hmmm…if that brown aluminum trim was considered an “improvement” over the decorative trim, I’m not sure what to think. We may not like the gingerbread, but creating a cheap facade over top of it to create the illusion of modernity is just a cover-up.

Unfortunately, so many older buildings, neighborhoods full of them, were “modernized” by covering up their decorative Victorian gingerbread in the name of “urban redevelopment” during the surging economies of the 50s through the 70s. As it turns out, that style of “urban renewal” was just a facade in itself, only covering up the issues in targeted neighborhoods and not really accomplishing any real change or development. Now many of those changes are losing their luster and literally falling away, revealing the true skill and artistry of previous generations.

If the carved elements above the windows are any indication, I can’t wait to see what’s under that 70s earth-tone pseudo-tudor beam and plywood siding.

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