The demolition of Riverview High School is old news at this point, but my father lives in Sarasota, FL and on a trip down there I took some time out to go to Paul Rudolph's famed school in order to grab some photos before it's completely gone.

I had seen the school once before I knew much about Paul Rudolph, the history of the Sarasota School, and why Riverview is an important work. This time, however, I was armed with a more refined viewing lens, and I am truly glad I returned. I found the site to be serene and calming, and almost entirely abandoned. It was interesting to see how this work fared in time in comparison to the drawings and images I've reviewed through the years.

On a negative note, the school appeared severely worn. The panels that once lined the classroom facade for sun shading were completely removed (not sure when) from the structural system and some fabric has been put in place (evidently a long time ago) on the courtyard facades as a replacement. This wear, combined with an impressive number of portable classrooms, supports the community's argument for better facilities. Unfortunately the community that prides itself on its culture did not see a reason to raise funds for the preservation of Rudolph's original building.