The worst sin here is the destruction of fine hardwood floors. Half the time you can't even get that kind of lumber any more. The trees are gone.
The "unnecessary gut job" example was the most painful. A lot of value was destroyed there, IMO. There was nice work in the fireplace, the moldings, the floor, and it was all well-maintained. Any "fashion depreciation" is done. With maintenance, it's going to look that good forever. Its replacement is a mediocre sheet-rock job that's going to age quickly and need another gut before long.
Half of what gets to me is the waste. I picture the dumpster that was undoubtedly outside during the gut, and I get mad.
Also, glass staircases are going to be super dated in ten years. They're already becoming an ugly cliche.