Evaluation of preservation of different historic buildings

I. Preservation Principles

1. Relocation and Reconstruction

- Original building was demolished + moved to another site

- Building materials were kept

 - Detached from the environment + context -> entails some loss of cultural values

- Is generally unacceptable unless this is the only practical means of ensuring its survival.

- Demolition (because of land value) is the worst because it demolishes all significances

2. Revitalisation and Rehabilitation

- Original appearance of the historic building is kept

- However, the function was changed -> a new life is given

- Keeping the building in use as a way to preserve it

- Adaptive reuse of the buildings is often the only way to balance historical, aesthetic and economic needs

3. Preservation

- Function unchanged, may have original or modified appearance

- To keep the building in its present state, e.g. by maintenance, cleaning

- No action is undertaken to return the building its original appearance

4. Conservation

- An integral part of good management of historic sites of cultural significance

- The most ideal preservation principle

- Bears witness and from the setting in which it occurs

- Minimal change

- Respect associations and meanings

- Where appropriate should provide continuation of practices which contribute to the cultural significance of the place.

Evaluation of preservation of different historic buildings

II. Is a historic building well-preserved?

Factors to consider

1. Location

- Any changes? Unavoidable?

2. Function

- Original or any changes?

3. Appearance

- Are the appearances the same?

- Same building materials?

4. Environment

- Any changes?

- Great change?

5. Preservation principle

- Relocation

- Revitalization

- Preservation

- Conservation

6. Other factors

- Case-specific