by Architectural Observer | Jul 5, 2017 | Blog, Observations
This 1920’s-era Commercial style building combining retail with living space above, as well as an adjacent gas station, would be easily forgettable if not for the exuberant zig-zag profile of its unusually crenellated parapet wall. While still intact above the...
by Architectural Observer | Jun 30, 2017 | Blog, Drag Queen Architecture, Observations
Not all stylistic makeovers are of recent origin – homeowners have had a penchant for remodeling for as long as there have been houses. Here are a few “Before and After” transformations taken from vintage decorating magazines and a promotional...
by Architectural Observer | Jun 22, 2017 | Blog, Observations
While recently unpacking boxes of stuff, I was struck by the number of antique photos I have which show buildings or houses which are in disrepair or in need of paint. Another demonstrates that even during the Victorian era, some people struggled with painting houses...
by Architectural Observer | Jun 4, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Insensitivity toward the artistic compositions known as building facades has been going on, well, pretty much forever. Clearly many people do not value buildings rendered in brick, stone, etc., in the same way they do an artistic composition rendered in oil on a...
by Architectural Observer | May 31, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Some houses – especially newer ones – appear to be more garage than house. In the early 20th century when cars were still coming of age, they were stored away in a garage at the back of the lot just as horses and carriages had been in prior decades....
by Architectural Observer | May 31, 2017 | Blog, Observations
Everyone who reveres historic buildings understands the importance of maintenance. Unfortunately, there are a lot of people today who do not revere our historic buildings and who do not think that they are especially important. A century ago the concept of actual...
