Building archaeology is the scientific investigation of the construction history and development of a building over time. A building archaeologist examines how a structure has been built, altered and extended through the centuries. This provides essential information for the restoration and renovation of heritage buildings.
What Does a Building Archaeologist Investigate?
A building archaeological survey examines:
- Construction phases — when were different parts built or altered?
- Construction methods — which building techniques and materials were used?
- Function — how has the use of the building changed over time?
- Dating — how old are the various components? (dendrochronology, archival research)
- Stylistic features — which architectural styles are recognisable?
Application
Building archaeological investigations are carried out for:
- Listed building restoration — to determine which elements are original and should be retained
- Renovation proposals — to identify valuable elements for the planning application
- Adaptive reuse — when giving a historic building a new function
- Academic research — as a contribution to regional architectural history
Methods
- Visual survey — the building is carefully examined for traces of alterations
- Archival research — historic drawings, cadastral maps and deeds
- Dendrochronology — dating timber structures by analysing tree rings
- Masonry analysis — brick sizes and bonding patterns reveal the building period
Related Terms
- Listed building
- Restoration
- Building fragment
- Adaptive reuse
- Dendrochronology
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