“Preserve, Protect and Inspire”. My conversation with Preservationist Architect Jon Buono from Howard L. Zimmerman Architects.

Jon is a Senior Project Manager and responsible for the firms prestigious projects such as the The Tuskegee Airman National Historic Site, The Wright Brothers National Memorial Site and as part of our conversation tonight – the luminous Cartier Building on 5th avenue.

I am anxious to talk to Jon about responsible stewardship and the power of Historic Preservation to transform and revitalize our cultural heritage.

David introduces his guest, Jon Buono, preservationist architect. David notes tonight’s music will fit in with tonight’s theme of preservation. David recounts the story of his first move to New York history. He describes New York in the 1980’s and its need for preservation when he first moved there. David uses his early memories of New York to highlight the importance of preserving the culturally and historically significant buildings throughout his home city.

Jon and David begin with a discussion of beauty. Jon describes beauty as something which evokes visceral emotion. Jon explains the importance of preservation and how historical conflicts often were the catalyst for preservation. Jon and David explore the storytelling involved in preserving buildings and the standards in place to establish significance for locations. Jon touches on his approach to a new project and how he determines what work needs to be don to improve a location.

David and Jon delve into the Cartier Building preservation project. Jon traces the history of Cartier as a company and how Cartier’s style informed Jon’s decision making when working on the Cartier Building in New York. They highlight the specific changes made to have the building reflect its original use as a mansion. They pivot to Jon’s U.N. project. Jon encourages people to tour the U.N. building to experience the beautifully redone interiors.

David and Jon take questions from the listeners. Jon explains the challenges that can occur preserving outdoor locations. Jon goes into some of the best finds he has made when working at older sites. They give tips for homeowners with older homes and how to best preserve historical details within the home.