C O N T E X T 1 0 1 : S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 7 7 sustainability. The building has been re-clad in what is believed to be the largest vertical array of photovoltaic cells in Europe. This is a response, at least in part, to the failure of the original mosaic cladding. The project has been very contentious. An appropriate philosophy was required, as well as a balance between arguments in favour of greater environmental sustainability. The principle of the reversibility of the over-cladding was a result of this. The issues raised can be seen as an early example of the potential battleground between the preservation of architectural conservation values and the need to address the climate change agenda. Concerns about poor environmental performance are not new. For modern cultural buildings, particularly art galleries and museums, this may impact adversely not just on the building and its occupants, but potentially on its collections and exhibitions. Problems like these occurred at the Yale University Art Gallery’s Kahn Building, designed by visionary architect Louis I Kahn and completed in 1953. Lloyd DesBrisay was the architect responsible for overseeing the 2006 restoration. He describes the tensions involved in seeking modern material authenticity in the replacement of the original steel frame windows, a striking part of the original design. They were replaced with a thermally broken aluminium window wall system which respected Kahn’s original design intentions. Some inappropriate later changes were removed. The importance of documentation in support of authentic restoration is emphasised in the case of the 1927 Billiet House in Bruges. Ann Verdonck researched both the philosophical and practical perspectives behind the reinstatement of the original decorative scheme by Huib Hoste, one of Belgium’s leading early 20th century architects. A Hoste drawing was discovered showing a total design for the walls and ceiling of the living room, consisting of an impressive ensemble of abstract paintings. This prompted historical and colour research which proved that the paintings had been carried out, and were intact but covered by layers of more recent paint. The documentation of the designs of architects and engineers can be vital for others to form an understanding of their work, and to inform repair and restoration. The testimonies of the original designers can also be important, especially when they review their past work in a way which permits it to be placed within the perspective of the recent past. One such architect was Harry Seidler, recognised as Australia’s most important 20th century architect. He was acknowledged internationally by a number of awards and accolades received over his 50-year career, including Australia’s highest honour, the Companion of the Order of Australia, and the RIBA Royal Gold Medal in 1996. Seidler did not consider himself in any way to be a conservation architect, and was not considered so by others. However, his work has great historic and cultural significance. He was vocal about the ‘heritage industry’. He died in 2006 at the age of 82. In an insightful interview, his widow and former business partner Penelope Seidler discusses how we manage our heritage, and the interface between contemporary architecture and its conservation. Other articles of interest include Dennis Sharp’s views on the welldocumented demolition in 2004 of Greenside, a listed 1936 modernist house in Surrey. Sharp gave evidence about the significance of the output of the original designers Connell,Ward and Lucas. He now brings the story up to date, and highlights what he sees as the tenuous nature of both the listing process and subsequent protection. The financial rewards for destruction can often be greater than those for preservation, a theme also picked up in other articles. The role of legislation and its interpretation in the courts does not always lead to such positive outcomes. This is demonstrated by a recent example explained by Scott Robinson from Australia. A wide range of bodies and individuals were involved in the campaign to protect a significant 1964 demonstration house. The local community was supported by conservationists, architects, lawyers and wide media coverage. There was even an unprecedented court decision to disallow the demolition. However, the government at state level would not step in to prevent the demolition. In debates about relative significance, expert opinion is invaluable (and must surely start with ‘experts talking to experts’). However, this will only take protection so far without the political will to legislate and generate public support. The issue therefore examines the role of both ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites) and DOCOMOMO (International Working Party for Documentation and Conservation of Buildings, Sites and Neighbourhoods of the Modern Movement) in identifying and promoting the cause of modern movement buildings in particular. James Dunnett is a key figure in DOCOMOMO UK. He explores the sometimes difficult relationship between his adopted organisation and English Heritage on where the appropriate balance should be struck when undertaking adaptations or changes in functions to major listed modern movement buildings. Examples of such buildings include Eric Mendelsohn’s Cohen House in Chelsea and Trellick Tower by Ernö Goldfinger. The final paper, by Stuart Tappin, gives a candid user’s perspective of the 1960s Brunswick Centre in central London. Tappin makes an important point about the need to understand not only aspects of the original design, but also the implications for users of fundamental changes that occurred during the extended construction period. Such alterations affected and continue significantly to influence the lives of the residents. In a recent column, reference was made to SAVE’s high-profile campaign to rescue a fine Grade II listed school and local landmark in Easington, County Durham, which is facing demolition. This is a significant case where economic viability in a deprived area with a depressed property market has fundamental implications for retaining heritage outside the booming south-east. Spot-listing at the point of closure of the building saved it but, the Victorian Society argues, brought the heritage protection system into disrepute.
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