An architectural approach to character appraisal

Abstract

The presented work provides an understanding for a process of how a good architectural solution can be the energy required to give life back to decaying historical areas. It is a time were pastiche solutions have long been absolete, we have to tap into the new resources that surround the field of architecture without being anarchistic to the surrounding. It is a time where we have to understand where we come from to be able to envisage where we are heading. The dissertation aims to provide a way of searching within our historical heritage for inspiration to new architectural solutions. The work revolves around two main components. The theoretical component and the practical one. The theoretical component identifies how to look at a place, by understanding aspects that are not tangible. It defines the meaning of place and provokes one to look deeper into things. It then delves into the manifestation of these intangible elements that resulted in architecture and spatial planning. The process that developed from the research resulted in the detailing of the analysis of Birgu, presented with this study. The study aims to provide a new tool, for new architecture, to be able to breathe life back into our local built environment. It is therefore through a contextual approach to architecture that both the story of the past and new future processes can occur in harmony.