Built-up Heritage over time 7QW8M0
Group 2
CONTENT 1. Photo analysis and Data collection P. 3 1.1 The contemporary 1.2 The old 1.3 Elaboration on the photographs 1.4 Data collection from the archive
2. Research of the contemporary P. 15 2.1 Building parts 2.2 Functions 2.3 Hiearchy of spaces 2.4 Faรงade additions 2.5 Light 2.6 Spatial layers 2.7 conclusion
3. Research of the old to new p. 26 3.1 Timeline of building usage 3.2 Volume evolution 3.3 Canal houses 3.4 Palace transformation 3.5 Plan evolution 3.6 Faรงade evolution 3.7 conclusion
4. Research of impact p. 39 4.1 Phyical impact 4.2 Technical impact 4.3 Social/Cultural impact 4.4 Results and future prospect
5. Individual essays p. 49 5.1 Malak Mehta 5.2 Jade van Pelt 5.3 Narindath Maraj 5.4 Mallika Jayaraman
Universeit Utrecht
Utrecht Binnestad Bibliotheek Mallika Jayaraman, Malak Mehta, Narindath Maraj, Jade van Pelt Introduction The Universiteitsbibliotheek Utrecht Binnenstad (UUB) is the city center library of Utrecht University. Situated in the Binnenstad at Drift 27, the UBB is surrounded by rich historical buildings and canals, which gives this area a historical appeal. Significantly, the UBB building block was once the former palace for Lodewijk
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Method Napoleon Bonaparte (King of the Netherlands) in 1809. Consequently, the current building assemblies has undergone numerous transformations. As of late, in 2009 architectural office Grosfeld Bekkers van der Velde Architecten completed the current situation.
To examine the past conditions, the present situation and to finally evaluate the impact of the design, requires diverse means of collecting data. These means include:
Site visit at two different period during the assignment Literature research through online sources Contact with Utrecht archives Visit to the Utrecht archives Meeting with Jaap Bekkers from Grosfeld Bekkers van der Velde Architecten Questioners to the users of the building Various drawings and diagrams representing analytical findings and transformations.
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1. Photo analysis and Data collection 1.1 The contemporary 1.2 The old 1.3 Elaboration on the photographs 1.4 Data collection from the archive
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1.1 The Contemporary
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INVENTORY: CONTEMPORARY PHOTOS | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
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1.1 The Contemporary
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8.1 INVENTORY: CONTEMPORARY PHOTOS | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
1.2 The Old
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PHOTOS | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
INVENTORY: Utrecht Binnestad Bibliotheek: old
1.3 Elaboration on the photographs
1. Archive Entrance The archive entrance is accentuated because it sticks it of the building it is connected with. The entrance has served as the main entrance for the archive. This entrance was built when there were two fire escape allys were created, the entranconnected to the former courtyard. In the contemporary design is this entrance kept and remained an important element in the entrance of the library.
2. Gallery The gallery contains a rich history, serving as the ballroom for the palace. Later on it served as a book storage place for the library. When Drift 27 became an archive, it served that purpose, and now again it is part of the library from the Utrecht University.The gallery remained its shape and openings, however the inside as visbile has changed a lot throughout the years.
3. Cellar The cellars are of high monumental value. The cellars before the contemporary design had a dierent height. For the contemporary design they used the cellar space to expand the amount of study space and storage space for books. The cellar level has been lowered, and additional structural elements have been added.
4. Drift 27 Drift 27 is the assembly of two former houses. In the old and contemporary pictures it is shown that the interior has changed, however the oors still serve as bookstorage for the library.
5. Stairs The stairs that were visible in the drift side partly dated back to the original stairs that were constructed in the 18th century. Throughout the years the stairs have been kept in tact. In the contemporary design the stairs make a clear contrast to the new added on layer, that is also indicated with the modern stairs.
6. Wittevrouwenstr. This side also served as storarge room for the books. In the contemporary and old pictures you can see the comparison in how the book shelves are oriented.
7. Entrance Gallery The entrance of the gallery has changed multiple times since its origin of the former palace.
8. Court chapel The courtchapel has served as an actual chappel before and during the palace period. Afther that it became a book storage space. Appearance wise it has remained the same.
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PHOTOS | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
1.4 Data collection
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PHOTOS | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
1.4 Data collection
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PHOTOS | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
1.4 Data collection
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PHOTOS | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
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PHOTOS | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
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2. Research of the contemporary 2.1 Building parts 2.2 Functions 2.3 Hiearchy of spaces 2.4 Faรงade additions 2.5 Light 2.6 Spatial layers 2.7 conclusion
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INVENTORY: Analysis of the current building
2.1 Building volumes
The heart of the drift complex is the entrance to the library that has a new layout and design. The entrance atrium enhancees the traditional facade while creating a new while creating a modern presence for the Universiteitsbibliotheek. The drawing below represents the individual volumes of the various drift buildings, coming together to form its new contemporary library. The library accommodates an 8.5 kilometre collection and 350 study desks and carrels. The whole complex contains six buildings with listed status that currently predominantly house , study spaces, storage archives, offices , meeting rooms, cafeteria and communal spaces for the students to gather
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RESEARCH OF THE CONTEMPORARY | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
The six building volumes individually house a mixed use of functions, as represented in ( fig below) The building blocks towards the entrance house the cafeteria and more communal functions , where as the building blocks towards wittevrouwenstraat house, archives and study spaces. Upon meeting with the architect , an insight was given to us that communal collection points are placed at right angles in an open arrangement. This makes the building light and transparent and encourages interaction. The aim was to creates a studious, attractive work environment where students can walk in and around the collection at their leisure and where there is space to meet for informal contact.
Cafe
Offices
vertical circulation
Information points
W/C’s
Storage racks
Seating
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RESEARCH OF THE CONTEMPORARY | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
INVENTORY: Analysis of the current building
2.3 Hiearchy of spaces
The circulation through spaces can be read through the primary and secondary spaces diagram ( Fig below) the contemporary design attempts to create a united ow of movement through out the various building blocks that have been combined. Below drawing aims to represent the primary spaces as the nodes where pit stops are made such as, the information points, gallery space that houses study desks and storage racks, office’s etc . The secondary spaces on the other hand represent the transition spaces.
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Pri
Se
INVENTORY: Analysis of the current building
2.4 Faรงade additions
In the contemporary design of the faรงade, the exterior has not changed much stylewise. However there has been created more building layers that do change the exterior appearance of the faรงade. The pink indicates the increase of faรงade changes and increase. For the Drift side it is notable that the surface area has increased. and that the entrance is the change in the faรงade. For the backside, it is visible that the roof makes a prominent appearance. As for the Wittevrouwenstraat, not much has changed besides some windows. And last for the Gallery, the roof on the courtyard side has changed into a fully covered roof with no skylights. Drift side
Drift backside (facing the innercourtyard)
Wittevrouwenstraat side
Gallery side (facing the innercourtyard)
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RESEARCH OF THE CONTEMPORARY | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
RESULTS : Analysis of the current building
2.5 Light
As the building functions changed to a library setting, ample amount of natural day light was a requirement,hence skylights were created along the roof . In certain spaces , louvers were added to set up to result in diused ligth entering the space.
Direct natural light Defused natural light
Direct natural light Defused natural light
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CONCLUSION : Analysis of the current building
2.6 Spatial layers
As the architects vision was to create a library space that resulted in more interaction , the longitudanal section displays how mezzanine floors were created through out the gallery space. Resulting in visual connection of the space as well as allowing natural light to reach the lower floor.
Double storey Single storey Multi storey Double storey Single storey Multi storey
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RESEARCH OF THE CONTEMPORARY | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
CONCLUSION : Analysis of the current building
2.7 Conclusion
The UBB building transformation can be expressed through the additional floor coverage and volume expansions. Both to meet the set assignment of book storage and study spaces. Functional intervention of a café to the old existing functions denote the new functional orientation. Interactive spaces and a clear routing also contribute to the elements that define the new intervention. And the overall modernisation of the building through building science and aesthetics. Preservation of historic artefacts in the building and materials illustrate the handling of the maki
Historical elements play a deciding factor when designing this new intervention. As a municipal monument, the exterior elements are closely kept intact. Although the additional floor and modern new entrance are drastic changes to the prior. The inspiration for these façade changes are an existing history of the building make-up. In contrary, the independent nature of the interior is a diversion form the exterior. Interior changes are made in favour to the users and in essence historical characteristics are selective.
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CONCLUSION : Analysis of the current building
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2.7 Conclusion
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3. Research of the old to new 3.1 Timeline of building usage 3.2 Volume evolution 3.3 Canal houses 3.4 Palace transformation 3.5 Plan evolution 3.6 Faรงade evolution 3.7 conclusion
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INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new
3.1 Time line
1807
Old canal houses with the garden to the central core
1809 Palace completed for Lodewijk Napoleon designed by J.D.Zocher Sr.
1834
1881
Old mansion to the south-east is demolished and a new floor is added to the Drift side
Drift 27 is separated for the archives because of fire safety, additional floor is removed
1905
New library is built in a neo-Renaissance style
1975 Temporary pavilion is constructed
1986
Old demolished bays of Drift 27 is reconstructed
2009 City centre library is completed, designed by Grosfeld Bekkers van der Velde Architecten 26
INVENTORY: Analysis of the current building
3.2 Volume evolution In 1807, except for the existing canal houses on the Drift street, the other buildings in the block were demolished. In 1809, the development of palace started with construction of gallery coming up with a pitched roof. The volume of the block rose further in 1834 with the increase in height of the buildings on Drift street, increase in height of gallery, built up of chapel and the buildings towards the Wittevrouwenstraat. In 1881, there was a decrease in the overall volume due to lowering of the oor on Drift street and demolition of parts of the drift blocks for fire safety. In 1905, the building towards the corner of Wittevrouwenstraat was finished and the whole block stood as one complete block. Further in 1975, there was a temporary structure installed in the courtyard center of the block, adding to an increase in volume. In 1988, mass was added enclosing the fire safety pockets made earlier. Furthermore, with the recent renovation in 2009, the temporary structure was demolished, and an additional oor was added towards Drift street, balancing the volume of the block.
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3.3 Canal houses
INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new
The canal houses of 1807 underwent significant changes to be transformed to a palace in 1809. Most notably is the movement of the entrance to the buildings from the Drift street to the inner courtyard.
Wittervouwenstraat
Keizerstraat
Drift 31 Drift Drift 27b
Drift 27 a
Before 1807 Routing and preserved elements Main entrance
Building boundaries
Interior building courtyard
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3.4 Palace transformation
INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new
This movement facilitated an inner courtyard faรงade updated to serve a new purpose. While previously, the inner courtyard was primordial the backside of the Drift buildings. The partition walls separating the Drift buildings were altered to allow access throughout the interior. This characteristic transformed the previously independent neighboring buildings into one building complex. Interior court that served the canal houses were kept in tack and have survived to the present transformation.
Wittervouwenstraat
Keizerstraat
Drift
1809 Palace transformation Main entrance moved to courtyard
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Building boundaries opened
Interior building courtyard preserved
Courtyard facade developed
3.5 Plan evolution
INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new Before the tural canal vated. The structed as
grandeur of being a palace, the buildings in this block followed an architechouse style. In 1807 Drift 27a, 27b, 29 and 31 were purchased and renobuildings along the Wittevrouwenstraat were swiftly demolished and reconthe palace in 1809. In 1834 a new floor addition was added to the Drift side.
In 1881 the municipal archives were placed in Drift 27a and 27b causing a separation from the surrounding buildings because of fire safety measures. This period also saw the removal of the additional floor along the Drift side. In 1881 Drift 27a and 27b separated from the surrounding buildings because of fire safety for the municipal archives. In this period also the additional floor along the Drift side was removed. 1905 celebrated a new library designed with a neo-Renaissance style. In 1975 – 2004 a temporary pavilion existed in the courtyard and in 1986 the old demolished bays of Drift 27 were reconstructed creating a whole façade. Wittervouwenstraat
Keizerstraat
Drift
1807
Before 1807 Old canal houses with the garden to the central core
Drift 27a
Drift 27b
Drift 29
Drift 31
Witterouvenstraat buildings
Old church
Wittervouwenstraat
Keizerstraat
Drift
1809
1809 Palace completed for Lodewijk Napoleon, designed by J.D. Zocher Sr.
Drift 27a
Drift 27b
Drift 29
Drift 31
Witterouvenstraat buildings
RESEARCH OF THE OLD | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
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INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new
Keizerstraat
Drift
1834
3.5 Plan evolution
Wittervouwenstraat
1834 Old mansion to the south-east of the block is demolished and a new floor is added to the Drift side
Drift 27a
Drift 27b
Drift 29
Drift 31
Witterouvenstraat buildings
Library
Wittervouwenstraat
Keizerstraat
Drift
1881
1881 Drift 27 is separated for the archives because of fire safety, additional floor is removed
Drift 27a
Drift 27b
Drift 29
Drift 31
Witterouvenstraat buildings
Library
Wittervouwenstraat
Keizerstraat
Drift
1905
1905 New library is built in a neo-Renaissance style
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Drift 27a
Drift 27b
Drift 29
Drift 31
Witterouvenstraat buildings
Library
RESEARCH OF THE OLD | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new
Keizerstraat
Drift
1975
3.5 Plan evolution
Wittervouwenstraat
1975 Temporary pavilion is constructed
Drift 27a
Drift 27b
Drift 29
Witterouvenstraat buildings
Drift 31
Library
Temporary building
Library
Temporary building
Wittervouwenstraat
Keizerstraat
Drift
1986
1986 Old demolished bays of Drift 27 is reconstructed
Drift 27a
Drift 27b
Drift 29
Witterouvenstraat buildings
Drift 31
Wittervouwenstraat
Keizerstraat
Drift
2009
2009 City centre library is completed, designed by Grosfeld Bekkers van der Velde Architecten
Drift 27a
Drift 27b
Drift 29
Drift 31
Witterouvenstraat buildings
RESEARCH OF THE OLD | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
Library
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INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new 1809
1834
1881
1986
current
3.6 Façade evolution Drift The drift façade has changed since it became a palace. It went from a one story Drift 27 to a two story building which has a change to the appearance of the street appearance. There is a notable increase of the façade surface area. When the Drift 27 became an archive it had to undergo fire safety regulations which resulted in the need to create two fire safety escape routes on both sides of the Drift 27 (see 1881). This again creaed a whole new appeareance to the Drift street, which now had two clear intervals. Later in 1986 these fire escape routes were removed and the building became connected again with the side buildings (Drift 29 and Drift 25). Then in the contemporary design, the building has again 2 story’s which refers back to the exterior of 1834. The transformation of the façade is shown clearly by its augmentation and diminishing fo the surface area which has been a sinus throughout the years.
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INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new
3.6 Faรงade evolution Gallery (courtyardside)
The faรงade of the Gallery side has transformed from a single layer to a doubled loayer building. The addition of the layer when it became the archive in 1875.
1808
1875
1910
current
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INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new 1807
1808
3.6 Faรงade evolution Wittevrouwenstraat
The canal houses on the wittevrouwenstraat had to make place for the newly renewed palace of Lodewijk Napoleon. The whole new faรงade was designed that served as a gate and entrance to the palace (1809). There were added more building layers to indiciate the grandeur and improtance of the palace. From 1905 to now it has not changed too much besides from some windows and the building on the far right.
1809
1905-2006
current
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RESEARCH OF THE OLD | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new
3.7Conclusion
User and function are the main elements to the considerable transformation through the years. This is depicted in the transformation between 1807 – 1809 and relatively in the new design this is also a factor. Demolition also followed the same purpose as illustrated in 1881 when the municipal archives required a fire safety protocol of separation. J.D. Zocher Sr. transformation of the canal houses illustrate heritage conservation mannerism through architectural elements and functions. The dividing walls between the Drift buildings were preserve then and continued to be preserved to the current, serving an interior spatial character. Prior to 1807 a church was located to the south-east of the block, situated on the Keizerstraat. This church was demolished during the construction of the palace, but functional characteristics are maintained with the new chapel being designed on the demolished church.
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3.7Conclusion
INVENTORY: Analysis of the old - new Facade change
1881
The increase of faรงade change has changed most drastically from 1986 to the contemporary, which increased with a surface area of 37,5 % from the previous appearance. Which is more than one third of the faรงade of Drift 27.
100%
1986
19 % Facade change 9%
Facade increase
now
40.5 %
Facade change
37.5 %
Facade increase
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4. Research of impact 4.1 Phyical impact 4.2 Technical impact 4.3 Social/Cultural impac 4.4 Results/conclusion 4.5 References
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INVENTORY: : Analysis of the impact
4.1 Physical impact
The high monumental impact relates to the changed elements that significantly hold a strong heritage value in the building. The first considerable change reects to the arches that previously existed in the gallery. These arches were not only book storage spaces but served a structural purpose in the gallery. The removal of these arches was a discussion between the architect and the heritage municipal department. The architect ultimately won this discuss to demolish these arches for a more open atmospheric design related to the concept of lightness and interaction. Preservation of these arches subsequently ended. An additional monumental impact relates to the façade on the Drift street. With the additional oor which was removed in 1881 being reconstructed. This impact is relative to a past period of the building but is significant in the street scape. The design of current is preserving an older period, and in essentially reinstalling a past building typology to the current urban fabric.
preserved/ Height Change Surface area demolished 38% 40.5 % 37.5% 75%
Before contemporay design
Contemporary design 40
RESEARCH OF THE IMPACT | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
INVENTORY: : Analysis of the impact
4.1 Physical impact
PHYSICAL IMPACT
Interior
The interior also has an impact on the physique. The interior has been plastered off at many places in the building, which gives a modern appeal to the interior. The ambiance is changed in the interior.
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RESEARCH OF THE IMPACT | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
INVENTORY: : Analysis of the impact
4.2 Technical impact
Recent renovation enhanced the essence of the building with the technological impact. There are various technological advancements being used which are within the human reach and the historical arena. The use of ducts and other technical services can be observed in the preserved character of the basement which merges the technology with the old. The detail of steel lintels was installed for increasing stability throughout the building. Moreover, additional details were installed to strengthen the existing trusses. Installation of slender hollow columns for mezzanine floor, the mezzanine floors themselves, the false ceilings hiding the services and fire safety equipment are also important concerning the technological changes. An increasing boost was given to the interior of the building using different sorts of artificial lighting and the sound absorbing panels on the pitched roof. Furthermore, the technological impact also relates to the overall comfort and safety of the building.
Technological impact
Technological Technologicalimpact impact
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INVENTORY: : Analysis of the impact
4.3 Social and Cultural impact
The analysis into the social and cultural impact relate to the survey and the new additional building function of the café. In the survey, 89% of students claimed to enjoy being in the UBB building, and when asked ‘What aspects of the building do you enjoy,’ majority of the answers are related to the atmosphere and the variable spaces within the building that allow studying or socializing. The survey illustrates a social atmosphere that the users enjoy being in, essentially to the desire of the architect. Notably, when asked ‘Is there something you dislike in this building?’ 53% of students claimed yes and related this to a lack of space to study or the business of the building. Both answers depict the social situation in the building, a tension of being used and the circumstance of usage. Relating this tension to the design assignment of 8.5km of book storage and 350 study desks illustrate a transformation in the cultural character of the building. The library no longer relates to the books and the students but is a hub for interaction and passage.
The 2009 transformation changed the function specific library to a more dynamic space of casual users with the introduction of a café and larger sitting areas for eating or leisure. The café is obtaining the Drift 27a, 27b and the rear side of Drift 29. This expresses a ground floor coverage of 1240m.sq. in relation to the ground library coverage of 3235m. sq. Conclusively, this results to a 38% transformation of floor space from a student related library to a social interactive atmospheric space. 43
RESEARCH OF THE IMPACT | Utrecht Binnenstad Bibliotheek
INVENTORY: Results of the impact
4.4 Results/conclusion
The outcome of the survey relates to the ideas of the architect. The main vision of the architect was to enhance the social interaction in the building, with spaces like the entrance, café, gallery area and small rest spaces adhering to the primary spaces. There is an increase in social interaction not only visually but also in terms of movement and circulation. The architect wanted to flush all the different buildings on the block to look like one single building with enough light and ventilation. This can be observed clearly with the white plastered walls with large windows creating an effect of continuity throughout the circulation. Though the building is user friendly is most of the aspects, the lack of space and study desks is a concern. It can be observed that, the exterior of the library preserves more of the monumental value as compared to the interior. In relation to the interior monumental value it is not in relation to architecture but the books that craft the functional character of the building. The books are a primary monumental value with equal value to the exterior. With the recent renovation, the exterior still maintains the “identity” of the buildings and “similarity” to the façade during the earlier times. A sense of “difference” can be seen in terms of extension of the floor on the Drift side and a contrasting modern entrance to the library. Opposed to that, the interior has a drastically modern appearance rejecting the identity of the building. There is a mere similarity to the interior of the library before. There are certain spaces of high monumental value still preserved in the interior maintaining identity of the building from inside. The building was successful in terms of usage and user satisfaction. But it is difficult to analyze upto what extent does the renovated building can be called successful or not regarding heritage preservation. The program was too huge to fit into the existing building. On one hand, a complete sense of preservation
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4.5 References Bijlage I Plan van aanpak d.d. 14 oktober 2002. (2002). History. (n.d.). Retrieved September 9, 2019, from https://www.inyourpocket.com/ Utrecht/History-Utrecht-English House history Houses at the Janskerkhof - Utrecht. (n.d.). Retrieved September 9, 2019, from https://www.huizenaanhetjanskerkhof.nl/huizen/ Pelser, C. (2019). Drift 27 Utrecht - UBB Utrecht | Houses on the Janskerkhof. Retrieved September 9, 2019, from 19-02-2018 website: https://www. huizenaanhetjanskerkhof.nl/huizen/drift-utrecht/drift-27/ Resultaten. (n.d.). Retrieved October 16, 2019, from https://hetutrechtsarchief.nl/ onderzoek/resultaten?trefwoord=drift+27 Tickets AutoCAD NL - BE. (n.d.). Retrieved September 9, 2019, from https:// www.cadcollege.nl/CADTools/Conversie/Kaarten_AutoCAD.htm University Library City Center: a royal book palace - The Utrecht Internet Courant. (n.d.). Retrieved September 9, 2019, from https://www.duic.nl/cultuur/ universiteitsbibliotheek-binnenstad-koninklijk-boekenpaleis/ University library Utrecht / Grosfeld van der Velde Architecten | ArchDaily. (n.d.). Retrieved October 30, 2019, from https://www.archdaily.com/43974/universitylibrary-utrecht-grosfeld-van-der-velde-architecten Universiteitsbibliotheek Binnenstad: een koninklijk boekenpaleis - De Utrechtse Internet Courant. (n.d.). Retrieved October 30, 2019, from https://www.duic.nl/ cultuur/universiteitsbibliotheek-binnenstad-koninklijk-boekenpaleis/
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5. Individual essays 5.1 Malak Mehta 5.2 Jade van Pelt 5.3 Narindath Maraj 5.4 Mallika Jayaraman
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Historical layers in built heritage – Alteration as preservation Malak Mehta 1321749
Introduction Heritage may be viewed as a process whereby objects, events, sites, performances and personalities, derived from the past, are transformed into experiences in and for the present. (Asworth,2011).
te society’s transformation.” (Rypkema,2005). The built heritage in turn evolves with societal changes. The historical layers are hence a product of overall social, political, functional and physical transformations reviving their own history with every alteration.
A built heritage undergoes various transformations throughout its lifespan. These transformations can have a functional purpose on one hand, to structural on other. Altering existing buildings for new functions is not a new phenomenon; in the past buildings that were structurally secure have been adapted to fit changed needs or new functions without questions or theoretical reflections. (Plevoets,2011)
Historical layers in UBB – Drift 27 Relating back to the building studied in the report, there were traces of a variety of historical elements in the library of University of Utrecht at Drift27. There were different layers of history preserved dating back to the 19th and 20th century. The alterations made throughout the renovations make it hard to determine what the original layer of history would have been. The heritage was preserved in a way by maintaining the identity of the building yet by altering the building in different eras.
Preservation Traces of history are observed to be sustained and safeguarded in the built heritage. Preservation is a protective intervention to maintain the current condition of an artefact, building or ensemble (Asworth,2011). The notion of preservation however is a contradictory one. Although preservation was mainly done because of utilitarian considerations, for many buildings the very fact of their continued use was the reason for their preservation (Pérez de Arce,1978; Plevoets,2011). Layers of transformation Heritage not only gives buildings, precincts, and ways of life that are no longer viable for one reason or another a second life as exhibits of themselves; it also produces something new ( Kirshenblatt-Gimblett,1995). Every time a building is transformed for a new use, traces of the older function can be found within the present use. The built heritage thus encompasses enormous layers of historical use or “history”. The post-modern deconstructionist architect Bernard Tschumi writes, “Architecture’s [ultimate] importance resides in its ability to accelera-
Conclusion Heritage is a mode of cultural production in the present that has a recourse to the past (Kirshenblatt-Gimblett,1995). The preservation of built environment existing in the past can be endeavoured but it would act more as a recreation rather than preservation. The essence of the time and experience of the environment in the past is lost and the preserved heritage is moreover an evolved form of the past. The ostensibly simple idea of preservation can be logically challenged by posing the question of whether preservation, in this negative sense of protection from change, is actually possible. (Asworth,2011). With the changing of time and use of the built heritage, transformations and alterations occur that preserve certain aspects of the original layer of past while rest of the building is the remanence of layers of different chronologies including the present. The historical layers in built heritage are thus altered to preserve the history by recreating it and transcending it to the future.
_________________________________________ 1. Ashworth, G. (2011). Preservation, Conservation and Heritage: Approaches to the Past in the Present through the Built Environment. Asian Anthropology, 10(1), 1–18. doi: 10.1080/1683478x.2011.10552601 2. Kirshenblatt-Gimblett, B. (1995). Theorizing Heritage. Ethnomusicology, 39(3), 367. doi: 10.2307/924627 3. Pérez de Arce, R.(1978).Urban Transformations & The Architecture of Addition, Architcetural Design,1978/4: p. 237-266. 4 Plevoets, B., & Cleempoel, K. V. (2011). Adaptive reuse as a strategy towards conservation of cultural heritage: a literature review. WIT Transactions on The Built Environment. doi: 10.2495/str110131 5 Rypkema, D. D. (2005, May). Globalization, Urban Heritage and The 21st Century Economy. Global Urban Development , 1(1)
ESSAY | Historical layers in built heritage – Alteration as preservation
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Inevitable transformation of the intangible heritage Jade Lu Ge van Pelt - 0857810
Cultural heritage is the legacy of physical artefacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations, maintained in the present and bestowed for the benefit of future generations (Mimar Sinan University of fine Arts, 2014). Monuments, buildings, landscapes books, arts and artefacts are tangible. The intangible aspects are traditions in the way of living, language, social practice etc. Both physical attributes and the intangible attributes are evenly important for preservation and intertwined. The significance of heritage finds its presence due to present or possible economic value but also because it carries a certain emotion with us. Which results in reminiscence to the intangible that can be experienced in the physical. This intangible characteristic is also spoken about by Leon Battista Alberti, who states that the two functions of heritage are: “Buildings may act as a referential object for historical value” and “Historical objects create a source for inspiration”. Alberti states that historical objects create a source for inspiration. When dealing with a heritage building, the building serves as the source of inspiration for the new design. Nowadays in most cases the new design will remain its historical features. As stated earlier, the reminiscence of intangible heritage can be found in the physical attributes. However, over decades and centuries, the ways of life has changed simultaneously. This remains a continuous process. Traditions have expanded, reshaped and have been adapted to its period of time which has influenced the perception on cultural heritage to its specific period of time. The audience of a city is considered a co-creator (B. Colenbrander lecture 1). In other words simply stated, the way of life shapes heritage, because it shapes the artifacts, the buildings and monuments.
Now I will put this together with the following question, how can the original identity/ design be kept within a new design of a heritage building. Because to my idea I think the continuous change of the way of life, the perspective of the new designer will not be of resemblance to the original idea/design. Simply because of the different way of thinking, knowledge, priorities resulted from the corresponding period of time. So is the transformation of society the result of the transformation of buildings and the choice behind cultural values? When looking at the Drift 27 Library in Utrecht, I have noted that the multiple transformations of the building are a result of the change of function. Its current function as a library is present in the new design of the building. The main vision for the design was to create more social interactive spaces. I think that is also corresponding to current attitude of society. However to my opinion this did not do the building good heritage wise, because the atmosphere of the previous building is not recognizable anymore. I think the constant change of the intangible results in a complex and difficult perspective on preserving cultural heritage.
_________________________________________ 1. Mimar Sinan University of fine Arts (2014). Preserving Culture and Heritage through generations. yth Diversity Matters. Retrieved 30-11 from http://amf.net.au/library/uploads/files/Diversity_Matters_Forum_overview_and_theme_summaries_2014.pdf 2. Lecture 1 Built-up heritage over time. Colenbraner. B (5-9-2019) 3. Cultural Heritage Preservation and Philanthropy. Nick Heinzen. Retrieved 30-11 from https://www.learningtogive.org/resources/cultural-heritage-preservation-and-philanthropy
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ESSAY | ESSAY NAME
Participation in heritage preservation Narindath Maraj 1036189
The concept of Heritage is a richly formulated word illustrating a lineage and traces the past as a framework to study the building blocks of the present. In an architectural scale or archaeological layer, heritage is in the conversation of preservation. This conversation is a relevant discourse to have considering the disciplinary approach in which professionals are taking to deal with heritage. During the lecture series, an example of professional disciplinary approach was highlighted. One being the practice of participation in heritage preservation. For the practices of participation, architectural heritage is not considered an isolated component but a relatable fragment existing in a social space. Inhabitants of an area can play a part in conservation and impacting the significance of heritage. In the role of participation, the residents act as a stakeholder in the preservation conversation that justify a sense of pride. Participation allow the management of heritage buildings to be personalised and cultivated as home. This approach clearly encourages individuals’ interest and passions when dealing with old architectural artefacts. Artefacts, which is stored in the identity of a community.
A significant way to look at the participatory approach is understanding the needs of the cultural community in decision making for heritage conservation. Social groups can be fundamental activists in the field and equipped to face local governmental policies to demand preservation on old buildings. Drastically changing and maintaining a period that individual inhabitants consider elements of enlightenment of the past to be preserved for the present. Engagement of this dialogue to reach all social groups in a community is the difficulty. As the rights of the cultural community belongs to the collective and not simply the most engaged. Through, these projections would need an educational backdrop to understand why heritage in the urban environment is important.
Through a seemingly encouraging way to manage heritage as a communal approach and distinctively a process separated from rigged professional decision making. Participation can fall under a pragmatic viewpoint of communal transformation that holds no space for the past relatabilities. These criticisms are real and can play a role in heritage buildings being poorly handle. The concept for participatory is broader than this criticism and plays a role in the respect of cultural rights. The participatory approach encourages and educates inhabitants to be an active part in the preservation conservation. In fact, this opening up of information empowers a community to actively integrate in the heritage mindset. _________________________________________ 1. Janssen, J., Luiten, E., Renes, H., & Stegmeijer, E. (2017). Heritage as sector, factor and vector: conceptualizing the shifting relationship between heritage management and spatial planning. European Planning Studies, 25(9), 1654–1672. https://doi.org/10.1080/09654313.2017.1329410 2. Cimadomo, G. (2015). Community Participation for Heritage Conservation. (September). 3. Dian, A. M., & Abdullah, N. C. (2013). Public Participation in Heritage Sites Conservation in Malaysia: Issues and Challenges. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 101, 248–255. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. sbspro.2013.07.198
ESSAY | Participation in heritage preservation
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The significance of heritage management in urbanization Mallika jayaraman 1350587
The world is experiencing the largest wave of urban growth in history, by 2050, 66 percent of the world’s population will reside in urban areas . Consequently, the entire world is currently undergoing challenges in terms of harmonizing cultural heritage conservation and the growing requirements of urbanization (Zhang,zheng sun ,2018). A architype shift in heritage conservation from sole preservation to “heritage management “ is a model that is being followed in various parts of northern Europe . The aim of this model is to unify the urban multi-layered functions and development agendas along with cultural and heritage preservation, as a result this approach broadens the understanding of heritage and the importance of cultural values and the urban context within the social and economic role of a city ( Janssen , 2014). There has been a paradigm shift towards a wholistic approach in heritage preservation, increasing significance of the relationship between historic objects and their contextual environment along with the influence of the stake holders who shape and use these historic buildings. There is a visible recognition that the historic environment is intertwined deeply with the landscape and culture of the cities, within the Dutch context. Preservation is not the main objective yet management of change is the definitive goal of the present conservation activity . (Fairclough & Rippon, 2002). Through out the series of lectures received during this course, an insight was provided on the various stakeholders and influence of the various governmental organizations in the heritage management of a monumental status building, within the Dutch context.
Dutch heritage conservation shifted from a preservationist to a context based and development oriented activity. Today’s heritage management looks not only at the monument itself, but at its spatial context, multiple stake holders and users . The Belvedere Memorandum in 1999 has played a key role in getting the heritage onto the spatial planning agenda ( Janssen , 2014) Linking heritage to the spatial challenges of cities and regions was also the primary goal of the ‘Modernisation of Monuments Care’ in 2009, resulting in a revision of the heritage preservation act ( Janssen , 2014). In order to understand the financial benefits of this system, monumental care is expensive , but is also profitable to the state government. In this subsidy system, in which the monument is shifted into a low interest loan . Every euro invested by the State in the restoration of historic buildings, additional two euros are invested by the private sector. In addition, the money returns to the State due to extra income of taxes (VAT, income tax, wage tax, etc). When all possessions are taken into account the calculations show that on the longer term large returns are gained by the State. Rapid urbanization also creates an issue employment, the preservation of monuments creates room for labour intensive jobs, as restoring old buildings requires skilled craftsmanship. (Voorde, 2006) As mentioned in the beginning of this essay, the world is currently undergoing challenges in terms of harmonizing cultural heritage conservation and the requirements of urbanization . Upon under taking this course, I believe that this well integrated model of “heritage management “within the Dutch context is an example that could be applied and adapted on a global context. _________________________________________ 1
Zhang ,Zhang 1, Sun. ( 2018) Effects of Urban Growth on Architectural Heritage:The Case of
Buddhist Monasteries in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
2 Janssen,J . (2014) Modernising Dutch Heritage Conservation: Current Progress and Ongoing Chal-
lenges for Heritage‐Based Planning and Management, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ tesg.12117
3
Janssen,J. , Luiten, E , Renes, H (2017) Heritage as sector, factor and vector: conceptualizing the
shifting relationship between heritage management and spatial planning ,Pages 1654-1672
4 Voorde,J.( 2006) FUNDING HISTORIC BUILDINGS THE DUTCH WAY https://www.ehhf.eu/ sites/default/files/201408/NETHERLANDS_text.pdf
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ESSAY | Significance of heritage management
UUB/ DRIFT 27 (1:150) Massing model
UUB/ DRIFT 27 (1:150) Contemporary intervention