CONSERVATION OF HISTORIC BUILDINGS FOR CULTURAL USE

Abstract

The call for the conservation of Singapore's architectural heritage only took on greater prominence in the 1980s amidst changes in values and outlook. Thus despite the efforts of the relevant authorities since then, the significance of conservation still remains a vital issue today. This study investigates the need for the conservation of historic buildings - incorporating the reasons for and the opposition to conservation - and the rationale for their adaptive re-use. It is essential that conservation is widely agreed both by the state and the public alike to be not only desirable, but also necessary and important in Singapore's context. Conservation as a whole should be considered a perpetuating process with immensely hopeful benefits for society. Countries everywhere, including Singapore, are attempting to reconcile the conflicting demands of maintaining their own national identities and heritage, and yet achieving technological progress. One way of helping to resolve this conflict is through the conservation and adaptive re-use of historic buildings, thereby providing the opportunity not merely of maintaining the fabric of these buildings, but also of introducing completely new standards and services. This approach could prove to be a viable economic alternative which need not impede economic growth. By breathing new life into them, the adaptive re-use of historic buildings could represent the best way of conserving them. It is expedient that increasing attention is being paid to cultural development and more support is deservingly being given to cultural activities in Singapore now. As a result of rising levels of affluence and education, Singaporeans are paying greater attention to culture. Both government and non-government bodies have been involved in various measures to stimulate cultural development and appreciation for literature and the arts. Facilitating cultural development necessitates finding more space for cultural use. Hence the adaptation of historic buildings for cultural use, in particular, is proposed by this study, further justification for which is provided by an exploration of the significance of culture. The study also examines developments relating to the conservation and adaptive re-use of historic buildings in a number of other countries, for much can and should be learnt from them. Particular attention is, of course, to be paid where the buildings have been adapted for cultural use. As a local example of the conservation of a historic building for cultural use, a case study of the Singapore Art Museum is conducted. All in all, it should be recognized that the future of many historic buildings depends not only on the successful restoration of the historic fabric, but also on the favourable introduction of new activities through adaptive re-use. In view of the importance of the conservation of historic buildings as well as the need for culture, it is highly recommended that these new activities are of a cultural nature. Indeed, adapting such buildings for cultural use is a natural consideration. Despite the realization of the Singapore Art Museum through the conservation and adaptive re-use of the old St. Joseph's Institution, it is essential that Singapore does not stop there, but instead continues to initiate and support such projects in future if it hopes to enjoy the benefits of both conservation and culture.