Title : LESS CAN BE MORE
Authors : Fritz Wenzel
Publication : 13th – 16th February 2013
Volume :
Pages : 10-Jan
Price : 250
Abstract : What Rehabilitation and Restoration means is providing support to old buildings – as much as necessary, but as little as possible. Intervention in the existing structures should not be too much. For one, this is because of their cultural and historical significance, but also, for economic reasons. This demand for restraint requires work that differs in quantity and quality from new construction. We have to study the history of the building, generate plans of the existing structure and its condition, and determine mechanical parameters of old building materials that are no longer used. In addition, we have to carry out double structural analysis for the 'before' and 'after' stages, as well as look for a new solution that is suitable for the old structure. I will try and explain my motto "Less can be more" using four real-life examples I have had the privilege of working on. Three of them are from Central and Southern Asia; a tribute to my hosts from this continent. I hope you will appreciate that I am not simply bringing you reports from distant Europe but examples from which I have been able to learn more than on the average project.