Pretty much what the title says. I have always thought as an American that Europe always tended to preserve, restore and maintain their structures and buildings that bear historical importance. America does have historical landmarks but we (in my opinion) often demolish buildings that could/should be saved for future generations. I suppose that I am the type of person that appreciates history and the aesthetic appeal of buildings from a different era, so I am biased. And also through the course of my career I've worked in lots of neat buildings with antiquated features, beautiful wood and plaster/stonework and metalwork (more than likely fashioned by the skilled hands of a European Immigrant).
Our building and occupancy codes play a role in this I'm sure, and I know that a building can be irretrievably lost once Mother Nature has her way with it. It still seems that we, in general, do not strive to preserve, yet in European society it's all about preservation.
Can you enlighten me? Thank you in advance, and greetings from America!!
Edit: My sincerest thanks to all of you for responding, I will be carefully reading your replies and commenting where I can, and think it appropriate. Honestly, this is something that I have been deeply curious about for many years and it is in light of recent events here that I have sought your input and perspective. Thank you all so much, again!!!