The Built Environment

“What Elmira builds, builds Elmira.”  This motto, adopted as part of the promotional and planning stage for the Mark Twain Hotel, captures an important truth: that the quality of the built environment can shape a city not only visually but socially and economically as well.  The 1920s saw increased attention to the ways in which design choices created a pleasing and welcoming environment. There was significant growth in the development of central business districts or “downtowns,” locations marked by fancy hotels, department stores offering a wide range of goods and services, and other businesses designed to provide a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience.  Architectural firms experimented with both classical and modern styles in their designs for residential, commercial, and public buildings.  Churches sought to increase membership through modern enhancements to their physical spaces.  Smaller cities like Elmira were inspired by their larger rivals to enhance the appearance of their communities.