Gates

Something that has always inspired me are undoubtedly the Dutch entrance gates of cities. Whether they are small or large, the structure and design has often remained the same over the centuries, often with an adjustment to meet the city's defense requirements. The frequently used red brick combined with white layers and the fairytale-like turrets were certainly not uncommon for a small or large city in the Netherlands.

In the 19th century, the function of these gates disappeared as there was no longer a duty to maintain the fortifications, which also marked the beginning of the demolition of many marvelous buildings. This occurred in a time when the economic situation in the country was low, and the focus was primarily on the functionality of the living environment. I still find it hard to understand that the most beautiful gates have been demolished and that sometimes nothing remains known about them because no photograph or painting has survived.

Because the gates were often located at strategic and central points, broader roads were often constructed, benefiting the city's infrastructure. It must be that when a country is in poverty, the importance of architecture is considered entirely subordinate. I cannot find another explanation for the demolition of these beautiful structures. The historical value, as well as the character of a city, is literally destroyed, and what replaced them often had nothing to do with the city.

The gates are much more than majestic structures; they carry the DNA of the city and mark a particular moment in history. The feeling of coming home and leaving the city for many generations underlines the importance of these buildings.

In places where the infrastructure was not immediately adjusted, the locations where these gates once stood often remained barren, empty spots, devoid of soul. A scar from an amputation that permanently damaged the city's character.

But with prosperity, these empty spaces were quickly refilled. Prosperity led to new zoning plans, and modernism often hasn't brought much good in terms of repurposing. To this day, concrete giants are built where a characteristic gate once stood. Nothing reminds us of that once significant point that gave so many people access to the city. The cold asphalt, the parking spots, and the large glass facades dominate the view. Functional? Definitely, we are a society where everything revolves around functionality. But what does it say about us as humans, what do these new buildings convey about our essence?

I can understand that during times of economic decline, demolition is chosen; you can't eat bricks, and that sums it up well. However, when a society finds its way up again, what drives humans to harbor so much resentment towards the past? The realization that the living environment says a lot about your society and how it views life seems to be very subordinate; perhaps it doesn't play a role anymore. Architects seem to want to apply modernism everywhere and try to outdo each other in all areas.

I won't dictate what should be done, but a balance in functionality and shaping the character of the city should certainly play a role. Rebuilding a gate adds nothing; defense is no longer a factor. With a growing population, the focus might shift to more dwellings, but retaining the character of city access. A majestic building that rises in height but where people at the bottom enter the city would suit this city well. And keep modernism far away from it. It doesn't match who we are as people and has already caused so much damage. I am convinced that the generations growing up in this century will come to this realization and will rebuild from the modernism that rampaged through cities. This will be the point where we form unity once more, a unity that the gates once symbolized to protect us.