The Story Behind The Scene

ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION CHALAKA WIJENAYAKE MAZEN RADI KESHAV SEERAZ NAHIDA AUCKBARAULLEE CHONG MEI YEE ISAAC CHEW WESLEY WONG TECK WON

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PROJECT 1: Behind the Scene: A Comparative Case Study on the Conservation procedure in Malaysia and abroad

TODAY’S ITINERARY 1- We Will give a short introduction to our research and Conservation in Architecture 2- A brief history on Kuala Lumpur Railway station and Aapravasi Ghat in Mauritius 3- Architectural Significance of Kuala Lumpur Railway station 4- Historical Significance of Aapravasi Ghat 5- Conservation of Kuala Lumpur Railway Station 6- Invite our Guests panels from Mauritius 7- Conclude 8- Q+A Session

Landscape | Coast of The Great Ocean Rock, Victoria

Agriculture | Japanese Tea Farm, Shizuoka

Agriculture | Rice Paddy Field, Chiangmai

Tradition | Chinese Shadow Puppetry

Building | Shrine of Remembrance, Victoria Performing arts | Philippine Baranggay Dance

Natural

Heritage

Natural features of any area in Malaysia consisting of earthly physical or biological formations, geological or physiographic features, mountains,rivers or natural beauty.

Man-Made Property,structure or artefact including heritage matter,formation structure,performance,dance, song, music that is pertinent to the historical and contemporary way of the life of humankind

Natural ● ● ● ●

Biodiversity ( flora & fauna) Geological architecture Agricultural architecture Landscape architecture ( coasts & shores)

Cultural ● ●

Tangible ( area, monument, building ) Intangible ( languages, sayings, musically produced tunes, notes, audible lyrics, songs, oral traditions, poetry, performing arts, theatrical plays)

WHAT IS ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION?

THIS…. BUT FOR BUILDINGS

Architecture conservation A process whereby the material, historical, and design integrity of mankind`s built heritage are prolonged through carefully planned interventions.

WHO CONSERVES?

IN MALAYSIA...

● Intergovernmental (International) (Eg: Unesco)

● Government (Eg: Jabatan Warisan Negara)

● Private (Eg: Badan Warisan Malaysia)

WHO CONSERVES?

JABATAN WARISAN NEGARA (DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL HERITAGE) To preserve and protect the cultural heritage and natural heritage by researching, documenting, enforcing and promoting awareness of the heritage ● ●

Gazetted as a national heritage in 2007 National Heritage Act 2005

WHO CONSERVES?

UNIT PENGEKALAN SENI BANDAR (CONSERVATION AND URBAN DESIGN UNIT OF KUALA LUMPUR CITY HALL) ● ● ● ● ●

Research, providing guidelines, implementing regulations Preparation of plans for any new development Form planning principles and development guidelines Organizing programs which encourage public awareness Evaluation of planning applications and advice

WHO CONSERVES?

BADAN WARISAN MASJID MELAYU LEBUH ACHEH (ACHEH MOSQUE HERITAGE GROUP)

● ● ● ● ●

Preservation of the historical and cultural heritage Promoting the preservation of historic buildings for education Collect and document information Advocating new development in the adjacent area Regular meetings and cooperations to enhance community

WHO CONSERVES?

BADAN WARISAN MALAYSIA (HERITAGE OF MALAYSIA TRUST)

● ● ●

Promote the permanent preservation of all historical buildings for education of the people Preserve the setting of historic buildings and the character of groups of historic buildings Preservation of sites of archaeological or pre-historic interest

WHO CONSERVES?

JABATAN PERANCANG BANDAR DAN PEMAJUAN (PENANG CONSERVATION UNIT)

OFFICIAL CONSERVATION COMMITTEES

● ● ● ●

Preservation of old buildings and streetscapes Identifying buildings and sites for zoning Control new development plans Formulating guidelines and development policies

HOW IS IT CONSERVED? RESTORATION ●

PRESERVATION ●

CONSERVATION APPROACH

RECONSTRUCTION

ADAPTATION

REHABILITATION

●

Conservation is an act (or acts) taken to prolong the life of a building.

It can be one or any combination of these steps.

In choosing the right approach, the history and the culture of the building is always taken into account.

HOW IS IT CONSERVED?

DOCUMENTATION

HISTORICAL RESEARCH

SURVEY & INVESTIGATION

CONSERVATION

DILAPIDATION REPORT FINAL REPORT

MEASURED DRAWING

MATERIAL & STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS REPORT

HOW IS IT CONSERVED?

RESTORATION ● ●

THE ORIGINAL DESIGN AND DETAILS OF A BUILDING AT A POINT IN HISTORY IS RECOVERED BY HISTORICAL OR PHYSICAL DOCUMENTATION. THE BUILDING IS RETURNED TO ITS HISTORIC STATE BY REMOVING LATTER ADDITIONS AND/OR REPAIRING ANY DAMAGES SUFFERED

Ruwanweliseya, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, before and after restorations

HOW IS IT CONSERVED?

PRESERVATION ●

AIMED AT PREVENTING DETERIORATION, DECAY AND DILAPIDATION.

●

PROVIDING STRUCTURAL SAFETY AND WELL BEING

●

SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT ONLY WHILE ENSURING THAT EVIDENCE OF CONSTRUCTION IS NOT CONCEALED.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia, Before and after Preservation

HOW IS IT CONSERVED?

RECONSTRUCTION ● ● ●

Constructing a lost structure, or a part of it after its original form and details are gathered Can be a full or partial reconstruction.

Only appropriate when it is necessary to revive the culture or significance of a site that feels incomplete without the reconstruction .

Frauenkirche, Dresden Germany, in its original form, after its destruction and after its complete restoration

A CASE STUDY ON THE OLD KUALA LUMPUR RAILWAY STATION IN MALAYSIA AND AAPRAVASI GHAT IN MAURITIUS

MALAYSIA OLD RAILWAY STATION Location : Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Kampung Attap, Kuala Lumpur Built date : 1886 (open to public) Completion date : 1910 Architect: Arthur Benison Hubback Architectural style : Neo-Moorish (Moorish Revival) /Mughal /Indo-Saracenic Original function : Railway station Current function : Tourism spot

Neo-Moorish architecture | diverse motif, repetition

Indo-saracenic architecture | uphold decoration

MAURITIUS

APPRAVASI GHAT Location : Port Louis District Built date : 1849 Completion date : 1849 Architect : Unknown Architectural style: British colonial stone construction Original funciton : Immigration depot Current function : National monument

THE ARCHITECTURAL AND HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE OLD KUALA LUMPUR RAILWAY STATION IN MALAYSIA AND AAPRAVASI GHAT IN MAURITIUS

THE ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF OLD KL RAILWAY STATION ●

One of the most notable and recognisable Neo - Moorish architectural icons in Southeast asia.

●

Before Malaysia’s economic boom, apart from Sultan Abdul Samad Building, the 2nd most prominent landmark of Kuala Lumpur was the old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station.

●

Second Railway Station to be built in the former Malaya.

A BRITISH INDIAN SYMBOL The Railway station is a Historical and Architectural representation of Two broad Civilizations: ●

The Indian and British

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The British influence on the architectural style of the railway station is reflected upon the size of the building : to signify the monumental and dominant figure of a British public building.

●

And a Southern Indian manifest of Malaya as an Islamic country.

Kellie's Castle is a castle located in Batu Gajah, Malaysia by Scottish Planter, William Kellie

Can you guess where is this building located??

A BRITISH INDIAN SYMBOL ●

MOGHUL NEO-SARACEN ARCHITECTURE

●

Also Commonly known as MOGHUL NEO-SARACEN or Moghul Revival style, this also has been adopted in many administrative buildings in Malaya specifically both Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh railway station.

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The architecture is a combination of Native Indo-Islamic and Indian architecture (to create notable impression of Islamic architecture) with western Gothic revival and Neoclassical styles. It was a popular style in late-19th century and early 20th century in colonial India and was carried into Malaya

by British architects.

Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, Jalan Raja,

Ipoh Railway Station, Stesen KTM Ipoh,

“The aforementioned factors are a few of what contributed into Considering the Old Kuala Lumpur Railway Station as a National and regional Heritage�

THE HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF AAPRAVASI GHAT ●

Over half a million labourers arrive through this Immigration Depot in Port Louis, Mauritius, to be transported to Plantations and Industries throughout the rellion labourers from India, China, Africa, South East Asia and Madagascar passed that of the British Empire.

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This Immigration Depot is considered as a turning point and a crucial contributor in the history and cultural identity of Mauritius.

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The word Aapravasi Ghat is a Hindi translation for “Immigration Depot”.

Newly arrived immigrants at Port Louis, Mauritius

THE “OUTSTANDING UNIVERSAL VALUE” OF AAPRAVASI GHAT ●

First site chosen by the British Government in 1834 for the experiment of using indentured, rather than slave labour, is associated with memories of almost half a million from a total of 2 million indentured labourers moving from India to other parts of the world.

●

In modern day of Mauritius, over 70% of the population’s ancestors passed through the immigration depot, which makes this site a very sensitive and living proof of the ancestry and origins of the Mauritian society Fabric.

THE CONSERVATION PROCEDURE OF KUALA LUMPUR RAILWAY STATION

USE AND REQUIREMENTS OVER A CENTURY ● ● ● ● ●

In continuous use since the beginning Adaptation was the most prevalent form of conservation efforts to the building Changes of needs in the building- adapting to new requirements Underwent constant maintenance, therefore faced less damage.

Addition of modern amenities and comforts.

Conservation Process - Old Railway Station The conservation work for the Old Railway Station site was done in several years: 1)

1967: North wing Changed to office use.

Closed off arched verandahs, with windows

2)

1986: Major Refurbishment undertaken, Interior windows replaced with modern ones, Exterior ones preserved,

Conservation Process - Old Railway Station (1967)

ISSUES:

Through time the railway required more office spaces

Requirements of more privacy for office spaces.

CONSERVATION ACTS:

The Railway station Northern wing has been re adapted to be used to accommodate new office spaces

Closed off arched verandahs, with windows to seal off the office spaces

Conservation Process - Old Railway Station (1986)

ISSUES:

the old building does not fit modern day ergonomics

Lack of modern comforts and new requirements

CONSERVATION ACTS:

Relevant windows replaced with modern counterparts while the exterior was repaired and preserved to give a sense of modernity in the old buildings

Waiting halls air conditioned, and then snack bars and a tourist counter added to cater to user needs and increase comfort levels

Conservation Process - Old Railway Station (1986)

ISSUES:

Need for increased transportational links

Urgent Need for additional platforms

CONSERVATION ACTS:

Rear wall carved open, with the addition of a taxi stop, several offices and retail facilities

Northern platforms and stopping points extended to accommodate the increased train activity

Conservation Process - Old Railway Station (1986)

ISSUES:

Reducing western influences in the external appearance

Increase of space as functions increase

CONSERVATION ACTS:

Western influences masked off and Two additional chhatris added

Southern wing extended

Organizations responsible for the Renovation works Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) The building has been under the ownership of KTP (Keretapi Tanah Melayu).

All renovation works funded and carried out under KTM instructions and planning

THE CONSERVATION PLAN OF AAPRAVASI GHAT

Conservation Process - Aapravasi Ghat The conservation work for the Aapravasi Ghat site was scheduled in three phases: 1)

Excavation and exploration of the site and collection of data through archival research and investigation of buildings contemporary to site.

2)

Preparation of working plan and drawings for the restoration work.

3)

Execution of the conservation plan.

An Analysis on the drawbacks affecting Aapravasi Ghat Moisture (a)

Leakage and passage of rainwater, leading to disengagement of the mortar.

Wind (a)

Cavitations in the Aapravasi Ghat structures

(b)

The transport and deposited particulars in Aapravasi Ghat

Analysis and Identification of the Causes - Aapravasi Ghat Solar Radiation:

(a)

Light, the ultraviolet component is a destructive agent to materials such as wood and pigments.

It causes fading, weakens and create loss of substance.

Thermal Expansion:

(a)

Solar radiation, thermal expansion and subsequent contraction has led to flaking of stone surfaces to a considerable degree.

An Analysis on the drawbacks affecting Aapravasi Ghat Insects (a)

Insects having nests in contact with mortar can be dangerous if they drill their way through the mortar, thus loosening the bond and weakening the structure. Insects such as beetles are potential dangers to the wooden roof.

Damage by Vibrations (a) (b)

Ground transmitted traffic vibration from the adjacent motorway is the major culprit.

Loss of foundation strength by affecting the subsoil

Conservation Process - Aapravasi Ghat

ISSUES:

CONSERVATION ACTS:

Damage of wall due to the roots of the tree next to it.

Stairs leading to the kitchen area was damaged through time.

1- It is required to remove the tree to prevent further deterioration to the original structure.

2- These stones need to be fixed back to there place and consolidate with lime mortar.

Conservation Process - Aapravasi Ghat

ISSUES:

CONSERVATION ACTS:

Blockage of drainage.

Flakes of lime wash on walls.

3- The drain has to be clean regularly for proper water channeling.

4- Grouting and edging needs to be done.

Maintenance - Aapravasi Ghat ●

The AGTF (Aapravasi Ghat Trust Fund) staffs are trained to conduct regular monitoring works.

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Weekly inspection by trained personnel in conservation is conducted.

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The visit of the experts in conservation is accomplished once a year for inspection and advice.

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The experts are expected immediately after any calamity like cyclones.

Organisations responsible for architectural conservation in Mauritius: 1)

WORLD MONUMENTS FUND

“Dedicated to saving the world’s most treasured places. ” It is a nonprofit stewardship founded in 1965. Now celebrating 50 years, this organization has taken care of over 600 projects in 90 countries, sponsoring an ongoing program for the preservation of cultural heritage around the world.

THE ROLE OF 2016 WORLD MONUMENTS WATCH ●

To encourage the commitment of site owners, local stakeholders in Mauritius.

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To mobilise political/financial forces to promote the heritage conservation as a means rather than an obstacle, to the sustainable economic development.

2) The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE)

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In charge of the preservation of the ‘Aapravasi Ghat’ .

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Provides the buffer zones with a legal status and make positive steps for management system efficiency in order to prevent more destruction.

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New management plan was completed in June 2012.

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Local Government Act of 2003 was amended in June 2011 to include the committee members (Ministry of Arts & Culture, Public Infrastructure, Tourism & Leisure, Housing & Lands, Environment, Ports Authority, The National Heritage Fund as well as Aapravasi Ghat Trust Fund) to provide a structured system of coordination among all institutional stakeholders.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clxBAoXYCbw

Importance 0f The Architectural Heritage of Mauritius: ● ● ● ●

Reflects the nation’s history as a colonial trade base that connects Europe and the East.

The architectural styles and forms have been introduced by Dutch, French and British settlers from 17th century.

With influences from India and East Africa, it has a unique hybrid architecture of international historic, social and artistic significance.

The designs, materials and decorative elements used are unique to the country and reflects the historical context of the Indian Ocean and European colonialism.

Figures: 1.

2.

3.

4.

19th century Eureka House (now museum) Theatre de Port Louis The Maison Marengo in Port-Louis Val Ory, grand 1913 house in Moka

References: https://www.wmf.org/project/traditional-architecture-mauritius https://whc.unesco.org/en/soc/104 Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clxBAoXYCbw

Conclusion The main purpose of conservation is to promote cultural heritage and to highlight the historical, aesthetic and architectural value of buildings and structures without losing its authenticity and context. Conservation is essentially a technical, cultural, and artistic activity which is based on scientific studies and in-depth research. It is imperative that conservation must respect the cultural context of a building or structure.

On the international level, it is widely accepted that the conservation of building or structure which is a monument does not concern only the monument or the site, but also there is a great need to ensure that the setting and ambiance of its immediate surroundings is maintained as close as possible to the specific period in history.

It is important to conserve the Aapravasi Ghat as it was declared as a National Monument, recognising the immigration depot that was an important part in shaping up the social, economic and politics of the island. It is also an important asset in Mauritius for the reason that it shows the history of the country. It is a historical building which is also an asset to the tourism industry since tourist seems to attract more to these buildings due to its cultural uniqueness, high historical and architectural values, and the strong desire to see something different.

Meanwhile, the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is qualified as national heritage as it has significant architectural importance which is the building itself is a mixture of Western and Mughal similar to Moorish Revival or Indo-Saracenic architecture. It is adopting a mixture of Eastern and Western designs. It has aesthetic value in terms of form, texture and color.

List of References 1.

Arazi, I., Khamidi, M.F. and Olanrewaju, A.A. (2009). Value-Based Maintenance Management Model for

2.

University Building in Malaysia, Journal of Sustainble Development, Vol. 2, No. 3 pp 127-133.

3.

Brereton, C. (1991). The Repair of Historic Buildings – Advice on Principles and Methods, London: English Heritage.

4.

Dann, N. and Contell, T. (2007). Maintenance in conservation in Forsyth, M. (Ed.), Understanding Historic

5.

Building Conservation, Blackwell, Oxford. Pp 185-198.

6.

Dann, N. and Worthington, D. (1999). Conservation Maintenance Management – Establishing a research agenda.

7.

Structural Survey, vol. 17, No.3, p 143-153.

8.

Feiden, B.M. (2000). Conservation of Historic Buildings. Oxford: Architectural Press.

9.

Feilden, B. (1982). Conservation of Historic Buildings, Oxford: Butterworth.

1.

http://www.aapravasighat.org/English/Resources%20Aapravasi%20Ghat%20WHP/Documents/Conserv ation%20Plan.pdf

2.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aapravasi_Ghat

3.

http://www.aapravasighat.org/English/Resources%20Aapravasi%20Ghat%20WHP/Documents/Brief%2 0History%20of%20the%20Aapravasi%20Ghat%20World%20Heritage%20Site.pdf

4.

http://www.aapravasighat.org/English/Resources%20Aapravasi%20Ghat%20WHP/Documents/Conserv ation%20Plan.pdf

5.

http://www.academia.edu/9148493/MANAGEMENT_AND_CONSERVATION_OF_HERITAGE_CHALLE NGES_AND_OPPORTUNITIES_IN_MAURITIUS