UPDATE: Demo Permit Filed for Rudolph Building in Westport, CT

Having filed a demolition permit, the new owner of the Paul Rudolph-designed Micheels House located at 16 Minuteman Hill in Westport, Ct, cited compliance with the requirements for the permit as the reason for removing the asbestos roof membrane earlier this week. There has also been a report that the windows of the building have been smashed. Plans for demolition are set for Tuesday, December 19th, 2006, in the midst of the heated debate that has arisen after the preservation community’s initial response to the building’s potential destruction. Through articles on WestportNow.com and the comments being posted to the website, it is evident that members of the preservation community who have rallied behind the Rudolph building, as well as the parties involved in the demolition and future construction of the new residence, have strong views regarding the stances they have taken on this topic. A New York Times article by David Hay is forthcoming on the issue.