| CODE | LAS2084 | ||||||
| TITLE | Renovating Old Buildings - Philosophy, Craftsmanship and Sustainability | ||||||
| UM LEVEL | H - Higher Level | ||||||
| MQF LEVEL | 6 | ||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 4 | ||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Centre for the Liberal Arts and Sciences | ||||||
| DESCRIPTION | This unit explores the basic philosophy and practical knowledge in renovating historical buildings. Particular focus will be put on the renovation of residential buildings and the various construction and finishing trades which need to come together during the process. The unit covers a range of topics including: how to better understand the building fabric and interpret layers of history embedded in materials, construction methods and architectural details. Special focus is given to traditional building techniques and materials, fostering an appreciation for traditional skills and local building techniques that have stood the test of time. Students will delve into the values that guide the respectful transformation of historic structures, learning how renovation serves not only to bring together technical tasks in turning a building into a home but also carries a cultural responsibility. Students will also examine how adaptive reuse and conservation strategies can meet modern performance standards while minimizing environmental impact. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding By the end of the unit the student will be able to: • Explain the fundamental principles of building conservation and renovation and recognise the role of professional expertise in the decision-making process; • Identify and interpret historical evidence within building fabric, including materials, construction methods, and architectural features; • Distinguish between traditional building materials and construction techniques commonly used in historic residential buildings; • Assess appropriate renovation approaches that respect the historical and cultural significance of a building; • Identify common deterioration mechanisms affecting historic building materials and outline suitable remedial interventions; • Evaluate the environmental and sustainability benefits of adaptive reuse and conservation strategies in the preservation of historic buildings. 2. Skills By the end of the unit the student will be able to: • Identify situations in which professional advice is required during a building renovation project and select appropriate specialists for specific tasks; • Estimate the approximate construction period of a historic building using evidence derived from its materials, construction methods, and architectural features; • Identify and distinguish between different construction techniques present within a building; • Assess common deterioration mechanisms affecting historic building materials and recognise their causes; • Compile a schedule of works and identify the trades required to undertake a building renovation project; • Develop a logical sequence of works for the conversion of a historic building into a residential dwelling; • Evaluate the suitability of materials and trades for use in renovation works, taking into account technical, historical, and conservation considerations. |
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| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Fieldwork, Lectures & Project | ||||||
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2025/6. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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