Conserving the Recent Past: Post-Modernism & High-Tech (1970–2000)

Abstract

A systematic examination of building stocks from the 1970s to the 2000s, with a particular focus on Postmodernism and High-Tech. From a heritage conservation perspective, the focus is on preservation, repair, conservation, and inventorying. Theoretical approaches to heritage conservation are combined with practical conservation strategies to meet the complex requirements of these structures.

Objective

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have a sound understanding of the specific methodological and technical challenges arising from recent works of postmodern and high-tech architecture. They will be able to independently analyse and professionally evaluate the design, conceptual, and, in particular, structural characteristics of these buildings. Furthermore, they will be able to apply sound conservation strategies for these buildings in practice and critically assess their appropriateness from a heritage preservation perspective. They will also be able to independently develop methodologically sound approaches for heritage-appropriate interventions in the built environment.

Content

The course explores the innovative structures and multifaceted design concepts of the late 20th century, which present architects today with novel challenges in terms of conservation, adaptive reuse, and extension. To ensure a responsible approach to this architectural heritage, the course builds on the necessary architectural-historical foundations for understanding the history of development, whilst imparting knowledge of current positions in preservation theory. The course is taught through a combination of site visits, detailed surveys, and archival research, enabling students to put the theoretical content to the test directly on the building itself. Using selected case studies, potential strategies for dealing with these buildings are developed and discussed in depth during guest lectures.

Resources