With the rise of the Modernist movement, architectural structures underwent a revolutionary change in the 20th century. Designers and architects abandoned conventional aesthetics in favor of innovation and experimentation. Modern materials and methods helped to bring in a new era of construction during this time, which resulted in the construction of famous buildings. However, because of shifting public opinions and functional limits, many of these architectural wonders, many of which are now close to a century old, face the looming prospect of being demolished.
The normal pre-demolition procedure doesn’t really do anything to change this mindset. It was imposed with the intention of ensuring a safe demolition process, however, it mostly concentrates on outside features like the building’s physical state, ignoring the intrinsic value, also historical values, and intangible traits and narratives woven into the foundations and the whole structure of these buildings.
The documentation’s primary goal is to provide the foundation for demolition, not to argue against it, hence the possibility and viability of retrofitting and adapting the structures to modern standards are also infrequently included. However, there are voices calling for a more thorough selection procedure, both from architects and from a particular segment of the public.
The structure should withstand the time and the harsh weather or whatever the future or nature brings. Conserving the building using retrofitting renovating innovating and creating awareness is one of the most workable ways of conserving the structures.
What Makes a Long-Lasting structure:
The typical pre-demolition process does little to counter this mentality. Imposed with the purpose of assuring a safe demolition process, it focuses mainly on superficial aspects like the building’s physical condition, neglecting the intrinsic value, the intangible qualities, and historical narratives woven into the fabric of these buildings.
The possibility and feasibility of retrofitting and adapting the structures to modern standards are also rarely included, as the documentation’s main purpose is to create the basis for demolition, not to contest it. There are, however, voices, from both architects and a certain section of the public, asking for a more careful selection process.
In recent years, emerging procedures are hurdled the prevailing mindset. Preservationists, architects, and urban planners are working together to promote a more comprehensive evaluation of these buildings. This approach involves assessing not only the structural integrity but also the cultural and historical significance.
Innovative technologies and sustainable design principles are being employed to retrofit these structures, making them more energy-efficient, comfortable, and adaptable for contemporary use. By taking these steps, it’s possible to save these buildings from demolition and unlock their hidden potential, preserving the architectural legacy of the 20th century for future generations. These current processes can make a structure long lasting.
