Honoring the Past, Building a Future
Rocky Mount NC: Preservation of Historic Commercial and Residential Architecture
I want you to look at an example of an ordinary commercial building, not unlike some we have on Howard Steet. I encourage you to see the buildings I photographed with this example of a renovated commercial building in mind. According to Moss: Architecture: Design: Green, whose architectural firm did the work, this former repair shop has … Continue reading Howard Street – A Street to Build a Dream On – Part 2
"The current passion for reuse might be explained by sustainability or fashion but, most importantly, it affords a sense of history and texture, taking advantage of buildings already embedded in cities. They are buildings with atmosphere, history, and stories inscribed in their fabric. And sometimes sustainability isn’t just about the energy and materials saved but … Continue reading Howard Street – A Street to Build a Dream On
I have sought out Amy Facca again who is a historic preservation planner, architectural historian, and grant writer with a strong interest in economic development. In Oct. 2013 she wrote an informative piece about various emerging facade improvement programs that benefit communities. These are incentive programs created to encourage the restoration of the exterior appearance of … Continue reading ‘Main Street’ Belongs to All of Us -Another Program Idea For The Restoration of Main Street’s Facades – Part 3
“This is the place of places and it is here.” Gertrude Stein Once upon a time in Louisville, Ky. seven historic buildings referred to as the Whiskey Row Stabilization, located at 105-119 West Main Street were stabilized as part of a fascinating project. These buildings were built in the mid to late nineteenth century and are … Continue reading ‘Main Street Belongs to All of Us – Saving Facades -Part 2
It has been said that Rocky Mount has the best collection of historically significant architecture in the entire state. We'll take that compliment. We have beautiful examples of what successful preservation looks like thanks to Peter Varney whose watch included the Train & Bus Station, The Imperial Center, the Douglas Block, and StreetScape. You have to … Continue reading ‘Main Street’ Belongs to All of Us – Part 1
Bob Houghtlin, my late husband, spent all but a few years of his working career at the same company - Leo Burnett Advertising in Chicago, IL. He wore a suit and tie every day. Usually, he rode the Northwestern Train into Chicago from Winnetka, IL. and walked across the Loop to the same building. I'm … Continue reading Rocky Mount – “This Is Not Your Father’s Oldsmobile” – Any More
Main Street Rocky Mount 