The houses around our block very much embody the American Dream. They exhibit separation from the street with front yards, especially the houses on the north edge of the block. Many of the houses had been heavily landscaped (or underly so), so as to isolate the house from the street with the foliage. In many of the houses' windows there were lacy curtains, further isolating them from the outside world. An aspect in which the block did not exhibit the American Dream is that the houses were often for rent as opposed to owned by the occupants. There were also a number of apartment complexes that were bigger, bulkier, and seemingly out of place.
The trees in the neighborhood provide both protection from the elements and a sense of security and calm in a city setting. It creates a boundary that sets the neighborhood apart from the “college campus” feeling that comes from being so closely situated to the University of Utah. That said, the neighborhood was clearly influenced by being so close to campus. It contained a few places for rent, making it accessible to college students seeking to escape dorm life but wanting to stay close to campus.
Our neighborhood, besides
the random gas station and modern styled apartment building, had such rich architecture that reflected the Bungalow style. The houses were small yet tall, and they often had columns or intricate details near the porch.
This patterned neighborhood stood out as much as possible with their adorable doll like houses that did not just stick with neutral tones. The feeling of family and community also shown through with government election signs and jack-o-lanterns on the front porch. The only setback is the little space.
Despite the "for rent" houses and random apartment buildings, I think these are some of the most amazing blocks in the city in terms of grand old buildings. Your first image is typical of the group of five or six absolutely fabulous Prairie style houses that have been restored in the last twenty years by individual families willing to put some money into these beautiful old buildings, giving them new life. There is an incredible variety between the various examples, even just the ones you photographed, and again great examples of each style. It would be so easy to muck up these buildings with less than thoughtful remodels, but luckily, the landmarks commission and the planning office in the city has helped homeowners make thoughtful restoration decisions. If you're interested in that type of work you should check out the Utah Heritage Foundation's website. UHF is a private non-profit advocacy group for historic preservation in the state and has numerous brochures or informational packets available for the public. You've got to the love the idea of advocating for these beautiful historic properties, and the evidence of the past that buildings carry forward.
ReplyDelete