Architectural conservation is an emerging work area requiring specialist training and knowledge to deal with its multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary nature. It involves the development of a critical approach for the analysis and design of the intervention, informed by the shared international principles and the specific nature and context of the historic building to be conserved. The course provides a platform for collaboration with practice and research partners, architectural critique, discussion, and debate.
Architectural conservation – the action of conserving-built heritage while maintaining its values - is practised differently worldwide, sometimes not at all due to cultural and economic constraints.
We need to attract new talent to the field of architectural conservation. Working with historic buildings is an enriching experience, combining the creative aspects of designing a new building with the in-depth research required to understand the structure and its context fully. Working with historic buildings is also excellent training to improve the design of new buildings, as you learn a great deal about the importance of design ideas, innovation, durability and care. It is also lovely to work, interacting with various people from all backgrounds, joining forces in helping current generations enjoy historic buildings, creating community identities around them, and transmitting the structures and their values to the future.
Glasgow and its surrounding area provide an excellent location for the course, with architectural heritage from all periods, from Roman to Medieval, Georgian, Victorian and contemporary, without forgetting the better-known Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Alexander ‘Greek’ Thomson buildings. Strathclyde has a lively international community of staff and students, and we enjoy a privileged position in the centre of Glasgow.