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CABANISS HALL DEMOLITION BEGINS

Another loss for Richmond

Erosion of Richmond's architectural heritage continues with the demolition of Cabaniss Hall. The real tragedy here is that the facade
of this building could have been retained as the entry into the lobby of a new building. While A.C.O.R.N. is not a proponent
of "facade-ectomies" (because in most cases remaining facades tend to look tacked-on), we feel in this instance the rectangular,
flat-ish facade would have served as a strong architectural design element that could have complimented a new structure behind it.
Unfortunately, compromise is not the norm for VCU or the State of Virginia and the City of Richmond continues to pay the price.
A.C.O.R.N. will continue to work to save the remaining landmark buildings owned by the State of Virginia and VCU.

Detail of glazed tile and arched railing

Building facade with demolition equipment in the ready

Facade Detail; note the detailed brick and tile work

Demolition workers removing the "pop-art" glazed tiles along window arches springing from the Corinthian capital

Front Building Entrance beginning to "erode Note: the word "School

What once was a crisp, groomed entry garden, was lost with that swipe is crushed under the weight of a building artifact.

Bulldozer getting ready to deal a blow Detail of remarkable brickwork that will never be duplicated - pre-cast concrete panels will replace this quality craftsmanship

The Nursing Education Building, built in 1927, is considered a contributing historic resource to the Medical College of Virginia Historic District (MCV). The Virginia Department of Historic Resources (VHDR) determined that the MCV Historic District is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP); however, the MCV Historic District has not officially been listed on the NRHP. DHR considers Cabaniss Hall to be a combination of Italian Renaissance Revival and emerging Art Deco styles. Further, this building exemplifies the craftsmanship and detail not found in many post-World War II buildings along Broad Street and retains considerable architectural integrity.