Only 17% said their city was "too quaint" and desired more gleaming, "iconic" structures. For a variety of reasons, the attachment to historic structures makes sense. Architects used to like ornate detailing until the faceless International Style came in from across the Atlantic. (Just take a look at any Louis Sullivan film.) People also like living in old cities because they're stable, consistent, and comfortable. As one writer put it: "Cities change over time, but buildings don't. Old buildings are fixed and reliable, new ones aren't." In short, old cities are cool because they're mature, well-established places full of history and tradition. They're not stuck in the past - they can evolve with the times - but they keep some of that ancient architecture to remind themselves and visitors that they're part of something bigger than just one person's life.