HERITAGE
CONSERVATION
Project 1A
This assignment aims to instil a firm basic understanding and appreciation for heritage and conservation practice through site visits and cultural mapping. Cultural mapping is a systematic tool to involve communities in the identification and recording of local cultural assets, with the implication that this knowledge will then be used to inform collective strategies, planning processes, or other initiatives. The study site is located around Central Market, Medan Pasar, and the Petaling Street area.
Project 1B
Students are required to conduct TWO precedent studies, preferably similar to the size or condition of the selected building on site. One building should investigate more on the façade treatment and the other one should show a full conservation process. Students are required to give an overall conclusion, and outcome analysis of both precedent studies focusing on the conservation methods,charters (ICOMOS & JWN), theories, and practices.
Project 2
Students are required to prepare a Heritage and Conservation: Adaptive Reuse Proposal (slides) for a selected building from Assignment 1. The task is to suggest a conservation method to conserve and make improvements to the given façade and 5-foot walk way of the selected building without
losing the existing characteristics and significant value. Students are also required to provide a proposal for the future use (adaptive reuse) of the building to prolong the life of the building and to adapt to the new
environment.
Project 1A
OBJECTIVES OF ASSIGNMENT 1A
Do a site visit, observe, and document the tangible and intangible elements/factors, stories of the site.
• Look into the historical background of the street and buildings, the residents, cultural context,
characteristics, architectural style, timeline, activities, food, and the condition of the site and
surrounding buildings (do include interviews and photos of the site plus old photos if any)
• Identify the significance/values of the site, building, people, history, and culture.
• Draw out / illustrate the street site plan/cultural map of the site, panoramic photos, and the information
collected.
• Select one heritage building and document the condition of the façade. Take photos and draw the
elevation of the facade and the five-foot walkway plan to scale. Find out more about the selected
building and its background. (choose a building that is easy to information)
• Include a conclusion and ideas on the importance of conserving the site, street, and buildings –
(supported by references or charters). Plus highlight the hidden gems, interesting stories, or elements
of the street.
Project 1B
OBJECTIVES OF ASSIGNMENT 1B
• Introduction - historical background studies, location, residents, buildings, cultural context,
architectural style or constructions, and the condition of the site and buildings.
• The significance/values of the site, building, surrounding context, culture, architecture etc.
• Drawings (plans, elevations, and sections).
• Before and after photos.
• Method and process of conservation. (a flow of process)
• Adaptive reuse information (if any)
• The charters (ICOMOS and JWN) and any related theories and principles with the project.
• The discussion/analysis, comparison, and conclusion. (of both precedents) + how will it contribute to the final project proposal?
This assignment was an insightful journey into heritage conservation, emphasizing the balance between preserving historical authenticity and adapting to modern needs. Exploring façade treatments and conservation processes deepened my appreciation for architectural details and the transformative potential of adaptive reuse. It highlighted the significance of community involvement, meticulous documentation and adherence to conservation charters like ICOMOS and JWN.
Through this experience I gained a deeper understanding of Kuala Lumpur’s rich history and cultural diversity, uncovering the layers of influence that have shaped the city. It not only enhanced my knowledge of conservation principles but also inspired a genuine commitment to integrating them into architectural design as a vital aspect of cultural preservation.
PROJECT 2
OBJECTIVES OF ASSIGNMENT 2
Introduction & Project Description
Provide background on the building, including its architect, owner, stakeholders, current condition, and use. Highlight its tangible and intangible cultural significance and value.
Building Analysis
Summarize the architectural style, structure, materials, and key elements. Include past and present images or drawings.
Existing Conditions & Dilapidation Survey
Focus on the façade's condition, identifying 2-3 key issues through a dilapidation survey. Propose remedial measures, strategies, and a conservation method for the façade.
Conservation Method Proposal
Detail the chosen conservation method (e.g., preservation or restoration), supported by guidelines, ICOMOS/JWN clauses, and case studies.
Adaptive Reuse Proposal
Propose a new use for the building with justification, supported by references, case studies, and visual illustrations.
Conclusion
Summarize the findings, proposed methods, and future use, emphasizing the importance of heritage conservation.
Deeply inspired by the historical and architectural essence of Medan Pasar, I sought to integrate cultural heritage into my design process. My approach focused on adaptive reuse, employing restoration and rehabilitation techniques to preserve the building’s integrity while introducing new functionality. Reimagining the shophouse as a social hub with a book and art gallery, I created a platform to celebrate local art, literature, and community engagement, fostering a deeper connection to the area's rich cultural legacy.
A visit to the ongoing conservation project at St. Francis Church further influenced my perspective, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities of heritage preservation in progress.
This project has deepened my understanding of adaptive reuse as a transformative process to revitalize historical spaces. By blending heritage with modern functionality, I aim to create environments that preserve history while serving as bridges between the past, present, and future.
Thank you Ms. Dee, for your invaluable guidance and support throughout this rewarding journey.