OU should prioritize preservation of its historic buildings COLLEEN MCLAFFERTY

Every morning, right around 7 a.m., the sunlight hits The Ridges just right. Its dark red bricks look a bit brighter, and I can see the light gleaming off its black metal gilding. From my ninth-story view, it is my favorite thing to wake up to, save for the sunrise. Its architectural design is beautiful, but – because of my love of history – I like it mainly for its gothic features.

Much of Athens and Ohio University looks like The Ridges. With brick exteriors and homely designs, it’s an aesthetic that feels like it is from a different time. While many universities have adopted more modern, sleek looks, we have maintained designs that remind visitors of earlier days.

The architecture is both beautiful and tactical. Athens and OU have a signature look that differentiates them from other college towns and universities. And the efforts have paid off; last year, our main quad was ranked second among others. Additionally, this signature look draws many students to the area.

This is why OU and Athens should work, at all costs, to preserve the quaint spirit architects have infused into our buildings. Just last semester, we saw the destruction of Scott Quad, a unique building in the heart of campus.

In 1974, the city of Athens also tore down Berry Hall, formerly Berry Hotel, a building rich in architectural distinctness and African American history.

Just a few months ago, OU revealed its plan for The Ridges. The Ridges Development Advisors have emphasized their focus on preserving The Ridges and the wildlife area surrounding it as they convert the buildings into apartments. The report also advocated for expanding recreational activities.

This plan is the best possible outcome for The Ridges. Historic preservation should be all about reusing available space, leaving the environment intact and maintaining as much of the original designs as possible.

After we see the success of this plan, I hope the same ideas extend to other empty yet historic buildings on campus. Haning Hall, built in 1906, and Lasher Hall, built in 1925, stand empty on west green. Last year, the Board

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of Trustees considered demolishing these buildings. While it would be a significant investment to modernize these buildings, The Ridges should be preserved; it is ultimately worth it to preserve Haning Hall and Lasher Hall as well.

Because, after all, once buildings are demolished, there is no putting them back.

Colleen McLafferty is a junior studying history at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. What are your thoughts? Tell Colleen by tweeting her at @colleenbealem.