Preserving the West

Built of primitive materials in unforgiving climates, many American landmarks are uniquely vulnerable. Organizations tasked with protecting the integrity of these important historical landmarks look to PennDesign.

The Architectural Conservation Lab (ACL) was chosen to partner with the Vanishing Treasures Program, a National Park Service initiative focused on preserving the traditional architecture of the American West. 

Professor Frank Matero is the Lab’s director and founder, and the chair of the Graduate Program in Historic Preservation. He led ACL in a review of Vanishing Treasures, assessing current designated parks and regional offices while establishing guidelines and recommendations for future training, curriculum development, and other educational initiatives. 

For nearly three decades at PennDesign, Matero has pioneered new approaches to understanding and preserving earthen architecture and other traditional building materials at sites around the world, and is recognized for research on the threat posed to these materials by climate change. His previous fieldwork with the National Park Service includes projects at Mesa Verde, Grand Teton, and Tumacácori.

PennDesign is helping to preserve history and serve the public good by protecting the distinct character and traditions for generations to come.