A radical break from the architec¬tural modes of the past, the Modern movement resulted in a half-century of bold new ideals, manifestos, and international collaborations. Beyond allegiance to a fixed architectural style, Modernism aimed to achieve purity of design by applying order, logic, reason, economics, and new technologies to a bold reimagination of space that is both organic and purposeful. Modernism and historic preservation make for strange bedfellows. In one sense, they are at cross purposes, the one seeking to transcend tradition, the other looking to hold on to the past. As Modernist buildings age, however, the two fields of necessity must draw closer to¬gether. To protect significant Modern structures from oblivion, Building Teams and building owners of today are faced with the paradoxical task of applying historic preservation principles to self-proclaimed ahistorical architecture.This course provides expert analysis and advice as to the means for preserving the Modern building and especially the building envelope.
Based on the information presented in this chapter, you should be able to:
1. Identify common threats to Modern buildings - thermal shrinkage, freeze-thaw cycling, water infiltration - and explain how changes in stylistic perception or program requirements can place Modern structures at risk.
2. Establish an appropriate scope for preservation of a Modern structure based on principles consistent with historic preservation standards, the values of the Modern movement, and life cycle assessment (LCA) as a key component of sustainability.
3. Evaluate repair and replacement options for aging glass curtain walls and for the restoration of exposed concrete façades to enable the preservation and reuse of existing facilities.
4. Implement energy upgrades for Modern building envelopes that balance preservation with energy conservation.