John L. Cotter

John L. Cotter was an influential American architect, preservationist, and educator known for his work in conserving historic buildings and promoting architectural heritage. He served as a professor at Harvard Graduate School of Design and played a key role in shaping ideas about adaptive reuse—repurposing old buildings for modern use while preserving their historical significance. Cotter believed that maintaining historic structures enriches communities and fosters a sense of identity. His efforts helped advance the appreciation of architectural preservation as a valuable and necessary part of urban development and design.