This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
In reference to the Trib's article regarding the Wall Mansion ("U. of U. moving into historic former home ..." May 27), Allen Roberts, the architect for the new renovation is correct wherein he plans on demolishing the east wing of the building, saying it will open up the grounds. However, in my opinion, he did not go far enough.
As the architect for the east wing, I enthusiastically agree that it should go, but just as important, the west wing, built sometime in the early '60s, should also go. That wing should never have been built, for it hides one of the city's best facades – that being the east face of the First Presbyterian Church. Then and only then can a proper restoration be complete.
Should additional space for the university's use be required, I suggest the basements of the two wings be lowered so that they are completely below grade, and then interconnect them.
Robert Alan Fowler
Salt Lake City