I agree that the attitude we have towards building in the US needs to change. It is sad that the 30yr mortgage has become the measuring stick for a homes life. There is another important thing to factor in when looking at the centuries old buildings around the world. The fact that they are still standing is certainly a sign of the quality of their construction, but also a sign of the quality of their maintenance. Those building have been cared for throughout their lifetimes. Materials will inevitably weather and deteriorate over time. High quality craftsmanship goes a long way towards delaying that. However, the design and construction of a house needs to be such that it can be maintained (and materials replaced if necessary) as time takes its toll, which it will.