Revaluing Modern Architecture: Changing conservation culture

The conservation of modern architecture is a complex issue, with debates about when buildings become old and significant enough to warrant protection. This book explores the conservation, regeneration, and adaptive re-use of modern architecture, providing a general grounding in the field and case studies from the author's extensive practical experience. It also considers the changing culture of conservation for sub-iconic buildings in relation to de-carbonisation and the climate emergency.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2022
Publisher: RIBA Publishing

The preservation of our modern architectural heritage is a topic of intense discussion. When do buildings acquire the status of being old or significant enough to warrant special heritage status and protection? Should modern listed buildings be treated differently from those of earlier periods? And what implications does this have for building users and owners, who may benefit from less authentic but more comfortable and usable structures?

To provide a comprehensive understanding of these complex issues, this book delves into the conservation, regeneration, and adaptive re-use of modern architecture. It serves as a foundational guide, offering a comprehensive overview of the field, its recent history, and current developments, including chapters on authenticity, charters, listing, and protection. Case studies drawn from the authors extensive practical experience provide valuable insights into the conservation of modern heritage buildings.

While Revaluing Modern Architecture primarily focuses on the preservation of 'elite heritage,' it also considers the evolving culture of conservation for 'sub-iconic buildings' in the context of de-carbonization and the climate emergency. It suggests how revaluing the vast legacy of modern architecture can contribute to promoting a more sustainable future.

The book features leading conservation projects, including the celebrated Penguin Pool at London Zoo, Finsbury Health Centre by Lubetkin & Tecton, and Wells Coates Isokon (Lawn Road) Flats, as well as previously unpublished projects. Analyses of key modern conservation controversies of recent years are provided, accompanied by over 160 photographs and drawings.

Designed as an essential primer for architectural students, practitioners, academics, those employed in conservation and planning, property owners, developers, surveyors, and building managers, this book offers valuable insights into the preservation and re-use of modern architectural heritage.

Dimension: 250 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914124235