Edinburgh’s Conservation Architects: Working for the Generations to Come

It is not practically or aesthetically possible to always prevent changing the structure or appearance of a building. The change that must be made must be implemented appropriately; otherwise the building’s character and tradition will be destroyed. This is where the conservation architect comes to the fore. The architects Edinburgh employs are well skilled in the art of conservation of the buildings in the city. Steeped in a rich historical tradition, Edinburgh’s architecture is a visual testimony to the city, through the ages. Its rich architectural history is hundreds of years old, and renowned all over the world.

Structures and buildings in Edinburgh have survived temperature and climate conditions through the centuries, but this does not mean that they can also survive the hardships of the present century. This does not detract from the skill and prowess of the architects and builders form the past. It does put the impetus on the conservation architects of the present day to preserve their legacy, while simultaneously protecting it for future generations to enjoy. The techniques and principles employed by such an architect are tantamount to his success, and must be firmly grounded in theory and philosophy. A working knowledge of material, technology, and construction and repair is absolutely necessary. The architects Edinburgh has at its disposal are of unparalleled quality in this regard.

The decision regarding how and when to intervene in a building’s life is of great importance. The decision is based on values, which are based upon artistic notions, context, and technical issues and difficulties. If one chooses to conserve a building, one must increase its life span, without changing its style, design, and façade. If the materials used in its original construction can be replicated such that the building can be preserved for future generations, the same must be used. If they will do nothing to strengthen the building’s structure, substitutes can and must be used.

The architects Edinburgh plays host to have conserved and restored several sites, including World Heritage Sites. This is with the full support of the Edinburgh government, who offer them a platform to innovate and be creative, while being logical and tasteful in their application of their ideas to the historical prestige of Edinburgh’s buildings. This is important from the point of view of the conservation of its architecture. Architects are constantly on the look out for more pliable, stronger materials that can withstand the harsh environmental conditions of the modern day.

Furthermore, architects in Edinburgh must conserve the history of their locale without detracting from the appeal of Edinburgh as a modern city that is fully equipped and acclimatized to the modern lifestyle. The buildings so conserved must not look out of place, just as their historical value must not be detracted form. This has always presented several challenges to the architects Edinburgh has produced, but they have managed to rise to the occasion successfully on every occasion. The conservation architects in Edinburgh are some of the best in the business, particularly when it comes to conservation and restoration.