Historical Preservation: Interiors

Take a look at an interesting article on interior preservation from Philadelphia. This is always a difficult issue; certainly there are often reasonable expectations for preserving the exterior of historic properties. Preserving interior space, even spaces where members of the public may be admitted for a price, is less intuitive. Even if the property is landmarked, must the order guarantee admission? Is this a reasonable regulation under the circumstances? Obviously many properties may have an increased value by virtue of becoming a historic landmark, and opening the doors to members of the public. There are compelling arguments on both sides it would seem. The recent discussions here in Nashville concerning Music Row are similar; the exterior of the buildings under consideration are not of significant interest; it’s the interior that has some historical/cultural significance.