Product Description

An inspirational new approach to urban preservaiton. Whether you specialize in architectural restoration and preservation or want to build your expertise in this rewarding discipline, Arthur Cotton Moore's The Powers of Preservation gives you the tools and techniques you need to breathe new life into decaying urban areas. A world-renowned preservationist with such high-profile projects as The Library of Congress and The U.S. Treasury on his impressive resume, Moore debunks the view that only familiar landmarks are worth saving... shows you ow preservationist can spark new directions in design... and empowers you to reclaim our cities. Packed with innovative ideas, 200 eye-opening photographs, and 50 fascinating case studies, this inspirational resource gives you the expertise to preserve, restore, and adaptively reuse often-overlooked urban buildings--and apply proven strategies for revitalizing dowtown areas. You'll see how to take an expanded, more permissive, populist approach to preservation... recognize the true potential of our architectural heritage... and avoid common preservation pitfalls.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2071616 in Books
• Published on: 1998-09
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 229 pages

From Library Journal
When Moore strode through the Library of Congress in 1997 after the completion of its magnificent renovation, he surely felt a swirling mix of emotions. Charged with a redesign that would usher the library into the 21st century, Moore and his firm rose to the challenge, and the Library of Congress now stands as a beautifully preserved monument that will enhance the power of information for ages to come. Internationally recognized and a winner of numerous design awards, Moore has worked on many successful historic preservation projects in the United States. His book is a testament to his gift as a perceptive visionary; in it he looks at restoration, city preservation, the revitalization of downtowns, and the adaptation of existing buildings. Moore is not stodgy, either?he stresses the importance of preservation with a delightful sense of humor. Highly recommended for academic and public libraries.?Kathleen Sparkman, Baylor Univ., Waco, TX
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review
"... A realistic and opinionated look at the future of America's cities and town." (The Abilene Reporter-News(TX)) -- The Abilene Reporter-News(TX)

"Arthur Cotton Moore... wields words as powerfully as he does images... the sixth-generation Washingtonian has created a colorful memoir... Moore knows what it takes to achieve success in architectural preservation. While discussing... projects (all of which are illustrated by glorious photographs and drawings), Moore cannot resist telling - and readers cannot resist lapping up - oddities and anecdotes that few Washington insiders know." -- The Orlando Sentinel

From the Back Cover
Arthur Cotton MooreOs The Powers of Preservation has generated considerable interest and excitement from prominent urban analysts. Here are some of the reactions: "Arthur Cotton MooreOs name is practically synonymous with quality restoration and creative adaptation of historic structures, and he expounds brilliantly on these and a dozen other subjects in this wonderful new book. It has everything - colorful vignettes mixed with humor, philosophy and, best of all, much wisdom. ItOs a delight." Richard Moe, President, National Trust for Historic Preservation. "Mr. Moore has done a great service to American communities of all sizes by showing how thoughtful planning and conservation not only makes places livable, but also economically healthy. Jeffrey L. Soule, AICP, Policy Director, American Planning Association. Arthur Cotton Moore makes an impassioned plea for combining the old with the new in ways that contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of cities. This book is not just about historic preservation, it is about making cities function again." Isabel V. Sawhill, Senior Fellow, Arjay Miller Chair, Urban Institute. "Mr. MooreOs fascinating book makes a significant contribution to the re-birth of AmericaOs urban communities. His work gives us hope that our cities can blossom once again by merging the old with the new and by blending preservation with politics." Larry E. Naake, Executive Director, National Association of Counties. "Mr. Moore is truly a giant in the field of urban design through conservation and preservation. His book is a personal view of his journey through the built environmentE." Robert H. McNulty, President, Partners for Liveable Communities. "Arthur Cotton Moore may have AmericaOs most attractive vision of urban architecture, one that O... sees the new and the old as natural partners in the continuum of history." William A. Niskanen, Chairman, Cato Institute. "A revealing conversation with one of AmericaOs most colorful and eclectic urbanists. His memoir is an entertaining, evocative, and heartfelt walk through the history of preservation." Elizabeth Jackson, President, International Downtown Association. "A charming reflection of his many projects and career. It provides insights to the power of restoration for the American city of tomorrow." Jeffrey A. Finkle, Executive Director, National Council for Urban Economic Development.

Customer Reviews

Outstandingly good book for city lovers
Most urban planning books are expensive disappointments. They overintellectualize the subject and are poorly written. Most serve mainly as portfolio pieces highlighting the writer's successes. The Powers of Preservation is the rare exception. It's entertaining to read and the author avoids posing easy solutions. It argues for the widespread adaptive reuse of everyday buildings instead of concentrating on a few isolated "showpieces." It tells the stories behind the author's successes and failures. The Powers of Preservation leaves readers empowered that, in their own towns, they can make a difference. It's the best I've encountered in reading numerous books on the subject.Excellent photos and layout, too.