7 Understanding the Building
Buildings are very complex. Understanding the building (as opposed to the architecture) requires a forensic investigation of the original built fabric and how it has been altered over time, identifying areas that are in distress, the cause of such distress, and the potential impacts and opportunities of undertaking remedial works. Such investigations require specialist input, and will complement, and should be read in conjunction with, the information contained in the Conservation Plan.
Consultants
- Advise the client and planners on the type of construction and servicing strategy of the building as originally built and used.
- >> Section 2: Historic Value
- Highlight the impact on the historic fabric of any alterations or changes of use.
- Outline the building’s current condition, identifying defects and causes of defect.
- Outline areas of immediate concern, along with any temporary measures that would alleviate or slow down the damage to historic fabric.
- Outline how implementing the requirements set out in the client’s brief and legislation would impact on the building fabric in the long term.
- >> Section 1: Policy Context
- >> Section 4: Client Brief
- Identify any specialist reports or work needed, e.g. to deal with dry rot.