by Architectural Observer | Jan 11, 2018 | Blog, Observations
Probably built in the 1890’s, the Merit Building in downtown McCook, Nebraska, went through a radical interior remodeling in the 1960’s. The redesign converted the basement level into a mini-mall with numerous aluminum and glass storefronts. The...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 10, 2018 | Blog, Observations
Taking advantage of a sloping lot, the builder of a c. 1920 bungalow achieved 3 goals simultaneously with concrete block: A garage A retaining wall A level lot There is a door at the back of the garage which opens to the adjacent sidewalk. A set of steps leads to...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 10, 2018 | Blog, Observations
At first glance, this house appears to be a rather ordinary Craftsman style bungalow (aside from the 1960’s iron porch supports, vinyl siding and plastic shutters, that is). However, appearances can be deceiving. This “bungalow” is actually an...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 9, 2018 | Blog, Observations
I happened upon this Craftsman-style bungalow a few days ago; the bright yellow facade initially caught my eye. The sides still display an earlier, less vibrant, color scheme. The new look, with its dark brown shingled gable, does a better job of emulating a period...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 9, 2018 | Blog, Observations
Modern design – as expressed in the mid-20th century – was never enthusiastically embraced in flyover country. Much of what little was built here has since been altered or destroyed. However, there are a few examples here and there which have managed to...
by Architectural Observer | Jan 8, 2018 | Blog, Observations
Structures which read as disorderly or awkward compositions are often victims of remodeling projects in which the maintenance of architectural integrity was not a top priority. Exhibiting a form of architectural psychosis, such structures are increasingly...
