The balance of ‘conservation-use’ in restoration discussed in ‘Heritage Conversations’

In the talk titled ‘Heritage Conversations’ organized by Istanbul Medipol University Vocational School Architectural Restoration Program, the importance of cultural heritage awareness and the points to be considered in restoration were discussed. Prof. Nuri Seçgin from Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University and Restoration Expert Master Architect Ümit Erdim were the guests of the event held in the South Campus Conference Hall. Speaking on the importance of re-functioning in restoration, Erdim said: “The preparation of restoration projects consists of various stages. First, the location and surroundings of the building are examined, followed by identification and documentation to better understand the building. After this stage, the process of re-functionalization and survival of the building begins. Documenting the structure is of great importance in the re-functioning stage; because it is necessary to understand the structure correctly, to give it the most appropriate function, and to determine the necessary interventions in the best way.”

PROF. SEÇGİN: IT IS IMPORTANT TO OBSERVE THE BALANCE IN A LIVING CITY
Speaking on the past, present, and future of cultural heritage, Prof. Nuri Seçgin drew attention to the development of cultural heritage awareness. Prof. Seçgin said: “It is important to observe the balance in a living city. When restoring historic buildings, some changes, interventions or additions may be necessary due to the necessity of use. At this point, the principle we call ‘conservation-use balance’ comes to the fore. Due to the age of historical buildings, we have a responsibility to preserve their original qualities while renovating them. In this context, the purpose of Law No. 5366 is the renewal, protection, and use of historical and cultural immovable assets.”