Structural engineering perspective on historic building restoration

Abstract

The restoration of historic buildings requires a comprehensive approach through a collaborative effort, as well as multi-disciplinary professionals. According to the general conservative guidelines of the Venice Charter of 1964 and the ICOMOS/ISCARSAH Recommendations for the Analysis and Restoration of Structures of Architectural Heritage of 2003, structural engineers are responsible for repair and strengthening of these structures on the basis of principles of authenticity, reliability, compatibility, durability, reversibility, and monitorability. In restoration projects, engineers often face significant issues due to the intrinsic challenges of the projects themselves, as well as the complex level of interaction with other professionals involved. The main goal of this research project is the identification and evaluation of the most significant challenges encountered by structural engineers in restoration applications in Turkey. Data were obtained from semi-structured interviews with six professionals involved in restoration projects in Turkey. The sample group was chosen based on specific competences and involvement in different phases of restoration projects in order to gain different professional perspectives. The results revealed several issues from the early stages of the projects, such as a lack of records about previous interventions, a lack of standards and guidelines with respect to historic structures. The identification and evaluation of these issues is intended to raise awareness by the community as well as by the legislative authorities. In the future, dedicated legislative tools could facilitate the execution as well as the efficiency of these interventions, thus limiting subjective approaches. © 2016 ISEC Press.