Check Out the Newly Added 2013 World Heritage Sites!

Photograph came from http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1418

There are a lot of amazing sites that have been added to the World Heritage List as of yesterday, a few I've even had the chance to visit! Take a moment to look at some of these incredible places around the world.

http://whc.unesco.org/en/newproperties/##

What are the Impacts Surrounding the U.S. and Refusal to Pay UNESCO Dues?

Since 2011 with the admittance of Palestine into UNESCO the United States has opted to protest against the organization by withholding membership dues. The issue creates significant political ramifications for not only U.S. historic sites but for national security and national economic health. The issue is obviously not black and white, but one with countless factors to consider. 2013 will mark two years of dues in the rears and the end of U.S. influence in several UN organizations unless a legislative change occurs.

For more information on the issue read the articles below. The first discusses more of the wide range ramifications of the issue and the second focuses more on the issue's impact upon U.S. World Heritage Sites.

UNESCO funding cut over Palestine vote may harm US economy | The Electronic Intifada

Mission critical: pay U.S. dues - San Antonio Express-News

New Construction and Height Guidelines

Could this new construction house be the end of my 1920s street car neighborhood?

Don't get me wrong there is a place for new construction in historic neighborhoods, but why don't more neighborhoods/ cities institute zoning/design guidelines?

Simply put this new house would not be as out of place if it did not tower over its neighbors.


Architectural styles don't have to match in order for a house to fit into a pre-exisiting street, but consideration has to be given to the house's set-back, height, and roof pitch.

With a little more planning and the use of sensitive design a new house could be added to my neighborhood and I would not fear for the future of the streetscape. I love the character of my neighborhood so I hope this will not be a new trend!

Does Don Draper support Historic Preservation?

Is Mad Men's Don Draper a preservationist? 

I've always enjoyed watching Mad Men for the great sets, rich characters, and amazing costumes but I have also always appreciated the light hearted discussions of 1960s era news headlines, including those related to historic preservation. The most notable was the marketing strategy discussion for the demolition of Penn Station. So is Don Draper a preservationist?

Read the following article from Preservation Nation to learn more:
[Interview] emMad Men/em Creator Matthew Weiner on Why Don Draper is a Preservationist