I have been reading all of the articles regarding Green Hollow Square over the past few issues of the Brentwood News and would like to make some professional comments and a suggestion.
As a Westside resident and architect for 18 years including eight years in Brentwood, I have shopped and worked in the Barry building. I appreciate its small scale, mid-century, courtyard style. Unfortunately, the glory days of this structure have come and gone. The structure is old and showing its age. Given that this building is fifty years old, I can guarantee the electrical and mechanical systems need replacing. Most likely, asbestos and lead paint will be discovered throughout the building and will require special removal. From an energy stand point, all of the glazing will need to be replaced either with laminated or dual pane glass. All of the existing walls and roof will need new insulation. Accessibility and safety issues will require adding at least an elevator, new railings and restrooms (men and women) on both floors. After removing and replacing all of the items above, what’s left? A wood structure that doesn’t come close to meeting the current building/earthquake codes – that will have to be upgraded as well.
In the Feb.-March issue, you show a perspective drawing retaining the old Barry building with a new structure around it. This is a short sighted-solution to the problem. In that article, you mention how some old buildings (hundreds of years old!) are being saved by preserving the facades with new, modern day structures behind it. I have seen this done before, and even though it is an option worth considering, preserving the Barry building in this fashion is not reasonable based on my observations above. Moving the structure to another location is also feasible, but again one must ask, what are we saving here?
Here’s a solution that I have not heard of before. Why don’t the Barry Building supporters author a book about the structure and the many wonderful memories they had in the building. It could be called, Fond Memories of the Barry Building with stories, copies of the old construction drawings and photographs through the years for local and national audiences to appreciate. I would bet Mr. Munger would be willing to fund this project under the condition that he could move ahead with his project as he currently conceives it to be.
Lastly, I think Mr. Munger should be able to tear down a building that his family commissioned and built in the 40’s. As long as the new complex meets the needs of the community and fits well with the surrounding structures, his proposal should be approved. Green Hollow Square will be a welcome addition to the San Vicente commercial district not only for the shops, restaurants and associated outdoor meeting areas, but also the ample parking and replacement of old and abandoned buildings. In case you are wondering, I have no financial or professional ties to this project. It’s time for Green Hollow Square to create new memories for future generations here on the Westside. (Yes, I agree the name isn’t great, but come to think of it, what’s so special about “The Barry Building†? I always referred to it as “Dutton’s†)
Sincerely,
Eric L Meyerowitz, Architect
