It is argued that choosing modern architecture over traditional design may threaten a place’s cultural identity and therefore new buildings should be built in the latter style. I mostly agree with this statement, as architecture largely reflects history. However, modern buildings can still reflect a place’s character if designed mindfully.
Traditional building styles should be preserved because they reflect history. This, as a result, attracts tourists, positively affecting economy. Many European countries try to retain the old architecture with modern companies operating inside. This gives towns a more uniform aesthetic, preserving uniqueness and offering a peek into history, while also adapting to the modern world. Additionally, such cities have a natural feel, as opposed to the ones, where the old town is only a constricted area, with the rest of the buildings being modern, leaving limited room for exploration, and therefore causing tourist dissatisfaction.
On the other hand, modern does not have to mean plain. With globalization and access to the internet, certain architectural choices have become almost universal. Most cities feature high-storey buildings, neutral colours, square and uniform shapes with minimal detail. Consequently, places around the world look alike and do not reflect their unique characteristics. To solve this issue, it is important to remember that cultural identity is actively shaped over time, and it does not exclusively reflect a certain period in history. A town can opt for modern architecture, but by adding details, ornaments and colours, buildings can emphasize the identity of the place. This way, a town can retain its uniqueness and attract crowds while also staying modern. For example, the Marjanishvili Square in Tbilisi features many modern stores and shops with their original brandings, ads and colours. However, the architecture is ornamental and colourful throughout the entire square, making it memorable.
All in all, I believe that it is indeed important to keep up the traditional architectural designs as they tell the story of a place and its culture. Preserving history, on the other hand, is beneficial for the economy as it attracts a crowd of tourists. However, it is also notable that a town can still convey its character in modern style buildings by adding unique tweaks.