Contemporary Architecture in the Historic Environment

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Conservation Policy
expands on the original article 22.2 by adding that new work “must respect and
have minimal impact on the cultural significance of the place.”
The practice note provides questions and answers in relation to common issues
in the use of the article in the assessment and design of new works in historic
environments. It emphasizes that new works should respect the character of the
place and not overpower it. (L.M.)
Conseil des monuments et des sites du Québec, ICOMOS Canada French-
Speaking Committee. 1982. Charter for the Preservation of Quebec's Heritage
(Deschambault Declaration) 1982: Adopted by the Conseil des monuments et
des sites du Québec, ICOMOS Canada French-Speaking Committee, April
1982. http://www.icomos.org/en/charters-and-other-doctrinal-texts/179-articlesen-francais/ressources/charters-and-standards/192-the-deschambault-charter
This document, based on then current international preservation charters, establishes
general principles for the care of Quebec’s heritage.
Article V-B views the development of historic sites as positive and necessary
for their preservation, because it can reintroduce the sites into the community’s
daily life. Article V-C declares that the original fabric should always be preserved
as much as possible and that reconstructions based on conjecture are to
be avoided. Article VI-C indicates that historic sites should always be prioritized
and that interventions in their surroundings must be evaluated for possible
adverse effects. Article VI-D adds that contemporary additions should not copy
historic properties and must be harmonious with the context in terms of “tonality,
texture, proportions, pattern of filled and empty spaces, and overall composition.”
Article IX-A gives priority to traditional uses while respecting those
needs of the local population that require the introduction of new uses.
(A.P.A.G.)
English Heritage. 2008. Conservation Principles: Policies and Guidance for the
Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment. http://historicengland.
org.uk/images-books/publications/
conservation-principles-sustainable-management-historic-environment/
The intent of this document is to provide guidance for consistent decision making
for English Heritage staff. It was also intended to inform other stakeholders
on how decisions regarding heritage conservation are made by English Heritage.
The approach advocated in this document is based on the definition of “conservation
as a process of managing change to a significant place in its setting in
ways that will best sustain its heritage values” (p. 7). These policies were developed
to be applicable to all different types of heritage places. Regarding new
works or alterations, it was recommended that all projects be subjected to an
impact study focusing on short-term and long-term effects on heritage values of
the place. The document also calls for high-quality design for any new work. In
the case of proposed changes or development of a site that will have a negative
impact on heritage values, it should be allowed to go forward only if it is proven
that there is no other reasonable alternative and that the public benefits clearly
outweigh the loss of heritage value. (A.P.A.G.)
Contemporary Architecture in the Historic Environment: An Annotated Bibliography - Getty Conservation Institute - 2015