A SPACE THROUGH AGES: EXPLORING THE ROLE OF CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE IN HISTORIC URBAN SETTINGS

Abstract

Architecture is timeless, but buildings cohabit continually in territory. New architecture insertions in historic settings which are considered for the present research are additions to larger old urban environments. These areas exhibit a range of heritage values, such as social, cultural, and architectural and these values in turn help in developing a better understanding of how the space or region has developed over the years. By the passage of time and due to modernization multiple typologies co-exist in a single zone which sequentially become a reason for the demolishment of the heritage identity of the space mislaying all its potentials. A critical issue faced at present conditions is accommodating change to heritage places and adding new layers to their environment in ways that recognize, interpret, and sustain their heritage values. The project explores role of contemporary architecture in contributing to this change in ways that conserve and celebrate the special character and quality of the historic environment that communities have recognized as important and wish to conserve for future generations. Being renowned due to its history, eccentric shrines, mausoleums, handicrafts, harsh and hostile climate, Multan requires a reconnection to its roots. Modern renewal proposals can contribute in reuniting old fabricated individual spaces of fort complex that have grown by the passage of time, diverse in characteristics in terms of programmatic influence, contextual usage and architectural vocabulary