The author critiques the growing trend of prioritizing property value over historic preservation, emphasizing the societal shift away from valuing architectural heritage. The call for government intervention and restoration presents a solution that combines preservation with environmental consciousness.
The author develops the overall claim in this passage by highlighting the increasing trend among big-name developers and homeowners to prioritize property value over the preservation of historic buildings.
The author argues that this disregard for the architectural and artistic value of Victorian, Craftsman, and Colonial buildings reflects a broader societal shift towards prioritizing location and modernity over historical significance.
The author laments the lack of appreciation for the craftsmanship and intricate details in these structures, emphasizing the irreplaceable loss once these buildings are demolished.
Furthermore, the author criticizes local governments for not intervening to prevent such destruction and suggests a solution: the enactment of ordinances to preserve architectural heritage.
By proposing the restoration of unusable or unsafe structures instead of demolition, the author not only advocates for the preservation of unique architecture but also introduces an environmentally-conscious concept that reduces waste in construction materials.