Conservation of historic buildings
Overview
Research work follows a multidisciplinary methodology combining detailed historical and archival research, on site survey and non-destructive testing techniques, and advanced methods in structural analysis. Specific areas of research concern; methods for documentation of historic heritage, holistic approach to the management of the conservation process for cathedrals, assessment of non-destructive testing techniques, development of analytical tools, study on appropriate repair materials and stategies.
A principal research activity is the development of an internet database interfaced with a 3D textured virtual model that allows for conservation data to be input and shared across the community of conservation professionals. The results of the project, applied to the Scissor arches of Wells Cathedral can be accessed here.
Research work sponsored by English Heritage includes study on the exploitation of ordinary photographic documentation for the extraction of metric information of historic buildings. A complete report can be accessed on the English Heritage Website here.
Research continues on analytical methods for the assessment of domes and vaulted structures. A parametric shape model approach is used to generate three-dimensional structural models, which are then analysed using limit state analysis and plasticity theory applied to non-conforming materials.
Work on an holistic approach to conservation of founduks in Morocco, with real case studies in the Medina of Sale’ is sponsored by the British Council. This project has a highly interdisciplinary approach, including the socioeconomic aspects of conservation and rehabilitation of inner city communities.
Postgraduate projects include the use of appropriate plastic repair in stone conservation, the optimisation of strengthening strategies for masonry historic buildings in earthquake prone countries and the use of local material for conservation of vernacular architecture in Thailand.
People
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Dina D'Ayala Mike Lawrence |
Senior Lecturer Research Student |
