PRESERVING THE RECENT PAST

With the window on historic preservation status defined by a 50-year lifespan, architecturally significant buildings from as late as 1955 are now eligible for designation. This presents new challenges for the historic preservation movement, as it begins to assume its obligation to protect worthy post-war structures that reflect a relatively abstract modernist vocabulary. Such structures are often less readily embraced by both the general population and the preservation movement itself. In addition, technical innovation (such as the curtain wall) is characteristic of modern architecture. When these buildings should be saved, but have experienced technical failures, restoration repairs that are strictly consistent with their histories are destined to repeat failure. New attitudes and approaches to repair and restoration seem necessary.

This Forum will feature a slide presentation by architect John Teselle on Nashville’s legacy of modern architecture. This will be followed by a panel discussion on the topic with Mr. Teselle, Ann Roberts and Blythe Semmer from the Metro Historic Commission, Nashville architect Manuel Zeitlin, and NCDC Design Director T. K. Davis.

Thursday 17 October 5:15 p.m.