Preservation

How is it that we as a culture decide that certain buildings are worthy of preservation? Is it as simple as age or what is deemed to be some sort of "important" circumstances surrounding certain structures? It seems to be a fine line to walk. Where do we begin? If history itself is the primary criteria how can we sit idly by as many of our vernacular structures, such as the tobacco barns of my youth, fade forever from our landscape? If it is circumstance that becomes the main criteria, how is it that we decide which buildings are deserving? Who's history do we value and thus that of their buildings? Aside from the context of the southern plantation and their corresponding slave quarters we rarely see buildings that tie directly into the lives of African Americans. It must be assumed that many of these buildings were, more often than not, deemed to be less than important and therefore became easy targets for the wrecking ball (See Durham Freeway). It is important that we recognize our past transgressions and not allow what little that remains of various fragments of our culture to fall between the cracks (See Oberlin Village). Gone, hopefully, are the days when seemingly the only preservation that mattered was that of the extravagant homes of the wealthy and large public/corporate buildings. As Americans with comparatively so little tangible history, it seems as though we would be more all encompassing in our efforts.

I can not argue that all old buildings are worth saving, however I will always contend that future generations be afforded the opportunity to experience the many diverse aspects of our building culture and not just what is considered to be "important" today...

Moore Square Competition

Sponsored by the City of Raleigh
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DESIGN IT, Shelter Competition

Sponsored by Google SketchUp
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Welcome...

Here at Raleigh AAU our primary objectives are to inform, organize and engage the local design community. So many of our events and much of our news is spread so thin through the various media outlets that much of it gets lost in the shuffle. We all seem to have trouble getting a handle as to what is really going on in our community and therefore we have become observers and not the catalysts for change. It is our hope that this is indeed a small step in the right direction and that through our efforts; discussions are raised, awareness is heightened, and involvement is inspired. For better or worse.... Welcome to Raleigh AAU.