Virtual zeitgeist, physical places, and real people

Architecture writer Nichole Reber has written a post for Hong Kong’s Perspective magazine blog that explores the intersection of history, preservation, and memory documented in past posts in this blog.

Living history’ takes on a whole new meaning when community and traditions come into play

Recent social networking has helped me to delve deeper into the world of architectural restoration and/or preservation. It’s one particular discussion thread that has me thinking. It seems that preservation isn’t always about architectural history in America, Britain, and Canada; sometimes it provides poignant reminders of zeitgeist.

Such is the case for David Rotenstein, a consulting historian. Rotenstein found his work on a residential project facilitated significantly when a bevy of previous residents and neighbours helped him dig deeper and deeper into the home’s 1930s roots. The owner of a neighbouring house was particularly thrilled to talk to Rotenstein about the original community, going back to when it consisted of only two houses. Her story reminds us of history’s gravity.

Read the complete post.

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