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Almost at the top of my list.
For me personally, it is a gauge of some important things that might not be associated with architecture or preservation, otherwise. The places I've visited/lived --like South Florida for instance -- that are indistinguishable dentist office utilitarian, are always the most painful to spend time in and I have nothing in common with the general populace. When you have people who care about that stuff en masse, you will always have a more vibrant arts and culture scene and a more free-thinking, friendly population. It affects everything positively. Im sure others might not agree, though
its important to me but it doesn't necessarily have to be old and historical. it can be new and modern but built in the traditional style. in cities where the historical architecture has not been preserved or never existed, that's where new urbanism, also known as traditional neighborhood design, could or should be introduced. if it exists then you want to preserve it but if not then there's a great opportunity to create something new and amazing, using traditional architectural and traditional urban forms as your template. and that's the key.
the historical cities of europe have stood for centuries. the ultimate test is the test of time...and they passed with flying colors. you want to build something that's going to last through the ages and people will still be marveling at long after you are dead, not a bunch of crappy strip malls that will crumble to pieces in 30 to 40 years time and people will be celebrating its demise because they couldn't stand the sight of it and they'll be cursing you as the idiot who built it. traditional architecture is timeless. it has endured through the ages because it simply works well, which is the very definition of sustainability. why reinvent the wheel?
Extremely important. I find most modern architecture has none of the artfulness and charm of more historical buildings. Or perhaps I just think older architecture is more artful and charming. So it may be a matter of taste. I think modern architecture could be just as beautiful as the older stuff, but modern developers don't want to put the time and money into their buildings, and when they do it has to be a "statement." You know, ego architecture from architects like Frank Ghery.
Historical architecture and intact (at least relatively so) urban fabric are very important to me. For example, I'm much less interested in an old house that used to be in a neighborhood, but is now surrounded by empty lots and parking lots.
IMO, modern structures built in a traditional style are only preferable to modern sprawl. They still lack the character only age can provide.
I went to see Steve Muozon, author of "The Original Green," speak last night about sustainability. It was a fantastic and enlightening presentation that focused on what key elements are needed for a sustainable community. He also explained how traditional layouts were more effective in meeting the needs of citizens than new more elaborate plans that in reality often end up working against their goals. Mouzon's beliefs for sustainability are based on eight key foundations: nourishable, accessible, serviceable, securable, lovable, durable, flexible, and frugal.
Fairly important if I'm choosing a location to visit. I like to explore the history of the places I go. Less important in a place to live than say jobs and a reasonable cost of living.
I think so ... Wasn't the premise that fabric stores are too big?
I believe so, yes.
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