The phrase "laid foundation" implies the beginning of something, usually in a positive sense. Antonyms for this phrase would include words and phrases that suggest the opposite: destruction, demolition, dismantling, tearing down, and ruining. Whereas "laid foundation" represents the start of a building or project, antonyms would represent the end or destruction of that same building or project. These antonyms could also be applied metaphorically to ideas or relationships that come to an end, or to the cessation of progress or growth. Overall, the contrast between "laid foundation" and its antonyms illustrates the dichotomy between creation and destruction, progress and stagnation, and life and death.