Accomodating the contemporary requirements of life in historic cores

Abstract

The exploration of the topic of the present study represents a reaction, with an emphasis on the cause for conservation of historic cores and some of the changes occurring within them with particular reference to the local situation, as well as recognition of the necessity for change. Historic cores are living entities which cannot be crystallised in time, but should allow the necessary adaptations for contemporary periods - within conservation limits. An outline of the issues encountered in historic settings is traced, and some of the possible strategies for the adaptation of old places to new conditions in contemporary living are proposed; this is done to for the opportunity to optimize their use. This is a proposed formation of thought, making way for 'participatory architecture', offering a space for people where to practice their interests and promote collective activities in areas which had originally served this purpose. The first section provides a background to the evolution of historic cores locally; this being mainly based on research that was undertaken in the Report of Survey as a study in preparation for the Malta Structure Plan. Various issues that affect such historic cores are identified in the second chapter. The final part of the section provides a background to the process that led to present-day policies and the exploration of issues identified in relation to the design guidelines provided by the Planning Authority. Section two focuses on the active role of conservation in historic cores today, in the attempt to draw up a strategy for a recognition of their validity and a reintroduction of activity in them. Section three deals with a study of Mdina, the prime example of historic core in Malta, representing a situation from which general principles and parallels can be drawn. In this section there is an analysis of the past roles of Mdina, throughout its history, attitudes taken towards the place and how these have ~hanged in time according to the different needs it catered for. The current functions and activities of contemporary Mdina also aid in formulating a possible identification of factors which contribute towards the situation. This makes it applicable in the understanding of how contemporary requirements of life can be accommodated in other historic cores, whilst retaining their validity through time. The last section proposes some conclusions on the general approach that should be taken towards the accommodation of contemporary facilities in historic cores by focusing on rehabilitation and the recognition that the only kind of approach to solve problems is active conservation. This is the only form of guarantee that the future of historic cores can have a valid meaning in life today.