REHABILITATION OF HISTORICAL BUILDINGS FOR CULTURAL USE - A STUDY OF THE SUBSTATION

Abstract

The rehabilitation of historical buildings for cultural use is a relatively new practice locally. With the introduction of the Civic and Cultural District Master Plan by Urban Redevelopment Authority and the Cultural Master Plan by Ministry of Community Development, a substantial stock of old or historical buildings would be protected and rehabilitated for cultural use. Thus, this topic will increasing receive more attention as from this decade. Rehabilitation is taken to mean more than just the restoration of the physical structure. It also covers the subsequent management of the place that is necessary to give it a new lease of life. Based on this understanding, the topic is examined by studying The Substation, which is an electrical substation rehabilitated for cultural use. The rehabilitation process of The Substation is considered and followed by an evaluation of its performance. Implications drawn from the study will subsequently form the basis of recommendations put forward. In short, this exercise is carried out in view of the long term prospects of building rehabilitation for cultural use.