plurale tantum

By: Sara Zewde

While much has been made about New Orleans’ unique architecture and urbanism, questions about architectural authenticity and the role of preservation continue to be re-hashed in the context of post-Katrina redevelopment, with concerns of a static mimicry of old architectural styles. Looking at the cultural origins and evolution of New Orleans’ creole architecture and urbanism is critical to its continued evolution, particularly in the post-Katrina rebuilding context. And, while West African influences on creole religion, music, food, and language have been well-documented, architectural and urban analysis have been more elusive.