Master of Science in Architectural Conservation of Monument & Sites

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item: Thesis-Full-text
Impact of declaration of a monument as a world heritage
(2021) Chandananda, M; Chandrasekara, DP
Ritigala is one of the most picturesque places in Sri Lanka. This picturesque value is mainly due to its cultural and natural aspects. Ritigala mountain range is located in the Palugaswewa divisional secretariat, Kekirawa in Anuradhapura district. The most outstanding value of this Archaeological site is the Padhanaghara building tradition. Rare species of flora and founa is found in this forest and the value of this heritage is immeasurable due to the dense forest which has been there unharmed for thousand of years. There are more than enough reasons for Ritigala to be included in the world heritage list due to the above mentioned outstanding universal values. But it seems that no considerable attention in this regard has has yet been drawn on the part of heritage conservation authorities. A long and meticulous feasibility study has to be done before Ritigala being declared a world heritage site in addition, management system which is to be submitted in this regard should be prepared in impact of declaration of amonument as a wodld heritage: A study of Ritigala monastic complex in Sri Lanka, it is attempted to research the need for it. It is done employing the methodologies of defining what a world heritage is, how it can be applied to Ritigala and examing the advantages and dis advantages arising from that it was observed when analysing the data collected the local and foreign tourists that majority of them are of the opinion of it being declare a world heritage. A few tourists have expressed their comments against. It justifying their reasons. Both of these parties have expressed their opinions based on some facts and they can be justified depending only on the management system implemented once it had been declared a world heritage site. Some of the locals also were posed the question whether Ritigala be declared a world heritage or not. When their responses were summarized, it is clear that they have shown more inclination for it than otherwise more over attention was paid to the world heritage sites in Sri Lanka and in othr countries in relation to their present condition after the inclution of them in the world heritage category. It was reveated that there are many such sites which have been maintained minimizing the damages and conserving the heritage due t the actions taken under the world heritage concept. Thus, there is evidence that this concept has been a success. On the other hand, there are some other world heritage sites in and out of Sri Lanka, which have failed to achieve success due to the lake of a proper management system. Venice charter and Narah document provide a very wide coverage on the subject of conservation of cultural heritage. Thus, how for these charters could be utilized in relation to Ritigala has been examinedhere. However, local and foreign tourists have expressed their concern over environmental issues which could be arisen due to declaring Ritigala a world heritage site. So, strict measures should be taken to protect the founa and flora of this natural reserve. Several suggestions on how Ritigala could be carefully maintained once it is declared a world heritage site have been presented here. Deciding on the number of tourists allowed entry to the site on a day, preventing opportunities for the unnecessary tourists entering the site by increasing the value of entry tickets, closing down the site for some period of time every year for the environmental balancing are the suggestions which require attention since majority of the tourists have expressed the need forimplementing rules, regulations and restrictions for conserving the site, implementation of these rules, regulations and restrictions also could lead to minimizing the damages to the site.
item: Thesis-Abstract
A Study on causes of decay of textile pouches and their conservation : with special reference to betel pouches in Colombo National Museum collection
Kumari, MPCP; De Silva, N
The traditional betel pouch in Sri Lanka has a very long history, and goes back to the dates of earliest civilization of the country, and, continues to remain to date, absorbing impacts from changing societies and various external forces. Majority ofthose traditional betel pouches have been made either made offinished wrapped in textiles, and are unique in their production, decoration, characteristics, and usage. National Museum of Colombo, which was established in 1877, is a repository of cultural and historic objects, specially possessing the most valuable collection of ancient and historic textiles, which reflect diverse categories of societies along with their social, economic, and, political background. Among those valuable textile collections at the Colombo Museum, the Betel Pouches are outstanding in their use of materials and techniques. However, due to improper measures of preservation and display, they are facing threats of decaying and extinction, requiring immediate remedial measure for their preservation for the posterity.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Study on deterioration and conservation of brick monuments in Polonnaruwa
(2015-08-14) Chithrananda, DC; De Silva, N; Manawadu, S
This thesis is presents a study of deterioration and conservation of brick monuments in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in North central province in Sri Lanka. The main objective of this research is the study of factors responsible for the deterioration of brick monuments in the old city of polonnaruwa. The study also includes facts such as the history of bricks constructions, technology, and deterioration of brick monuments in Polonanruwa owing to natural, environment and human actions and also the activities connected with conservation.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Conservation of Architectural timberwork of the Kandyan period
(2015-08-14) Amarasinghe, VY; De Silva, TKNP
Kaodyan period buildings which are of predominantly timber construction form a part of our cultural heritage. Conservation of these structures require special skills IIcIIPC:rtil;e to consolidate them without damaging their authenticity. Degeneration of the ork of these buildings is caused by the activity of decay causing agencies and the mstigated during the periodic renewal process. ~ve of this thesis was to identify the nature and causes of degeneration seen on the elements of these buildings and to provide recommendations for the conservation of . The study was based on a qualitative approach and relied primarily on observations site, on records and documentation relating to the conservation of the structures and fiDdings show that the degeneration of the valued architectural timberwork, was often by the combined or interrelated action of human, biological and climatic . The necessity was seen for preventive measures to prolong the life of timber to minimize the need for renewal, and for research to be carried out to find methods material that are economical and adaptable to local conditions, based on their lib_nee in the past .Using traditional concepts, methods and techniques for this end, to be the most valid solution.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Conservation and preservation of colonial facades in historic urban neighborhoods with special reference to Slave Island
(2015-08-14) Magamage J; Manawadu SM
Present urban neighborhoods in srilanka are descending from colonial influences; some of the streetscapes are still remaining in several cities and suburbs such as Colombo, Galle fort, Jaffna and Slave Island. These cites represent they own urban identity. Through of the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial influences, these streetscapes are showing three identities of colonial urban neighborhoods in one city. That is historical product and can't duplicate or rebuild. Colonial building facades are more important part of the colonial urban streetscape however Fac;adeis a view point of the colonial identity. When considering growth of the urban architecture colonial period is bench mark of all cities. When observing of the present colonial neighborhoods, Portuguese, Dutch and British archttectural, cultural and sociological values. The slave island is still remaining and living colonial urban streetscape in Sri Lanka however they represent Dutch and British architectural identity, also strongly felt as result of vanishing.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Strategies for the in-situ and ex-situ conservation of timber shipwreeks and artefacts with special reference to the maritime archaeological excavations at Galle Harbour
Kasturi, KAA; Silva, ND; Godfrey, L; Kasturi, K.A.A. (2008). Strategies for the in-situ and ex-situ conservation of timber shipwreeks and artefacts with special reference to the maritime archaeological excavations at Galle Harbour University of Moratuwa]. Institutional Repository University of Moratuwa. http://dl.lib.mrt.ac.lk/handle/123/1740
The implementation of the waterlogged wood conservation has important implication for Sri Lanka. Firstly, there is a diverse and significant cultural heritage (multi user environment) in the sea. Secondly, there is a rich underwater cultural heritage in Sri Lankan inland waters. This thesis outline procedures we have initiated to conserve the unique non renewable, invisible heritage that should be systematically recovered preserved and studied. This research focuses not only on the ex-situ conservation of waterlogged wooden shipwreck and artefacts from Galle harbour projects, but also local and intemational legal frame work its secure for underwater cultural heritage, how to environmental factors affect to waterlogged wood and its deterioration and preservation, pre-disturbance conservation assessment and in-situ conservation, research aspects and environmental monitoring and control in museum. This is also discussing the issues involved such as climate, money, time, technology, unawareness and conflicts of interest. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) treatment for waterlogged archaeological wood is mainly discussed as ex -situ conservation. It is also briefly described conservation process has gained essential experience in working on large waterlogged archaeological wood structures in the field which having been allowed to dry out and with few available funds and little equipment, the innovative techniques applied to the Lathpadura Paruwa. Future opportunities for further detailed conservation and research on waterlogged wood, possibly in association with those interested in ancient vessels and maritime archaeology at the remains at sea and inland water as it rapidly replaces its many ancient traditions are flagged.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Reutilization as a conservation strategy : a study with special reference to colonial buildings in Anuradhapura
Mathota, MRSNM; Chandrasekera, DP; Kulasooriya, V
"Damage to cultural property belonging to any people whatsoever means damage to the cultural heritage of all mankind, since each people makes in contribution to the culture of the world" (Hague Convention 1954) The environment we live in as human beings is shaped by the nature and the culture. Cultural heritage, which includes all buildings and landscapes etc constructed and cultivated by man throughout different ages and which are considered valuable, since they either stand as tangible witnesses to how earlier generations lived or constitute historical places or have special religious or cultural significance. Caring for the cultural heritage should therefore be given greater attention. The value of the cultural heritage has been recognized intentionally and also the conservation of cultural property had been paid great attention throughout the recent history of the world. The term cultural heritage embraces a huge area and it does not mean a mere building from the past. The physical heritage from the past, i.e. buildings, other manmade structures, cultivated landscapes or sites of symbolic value, are important features of our environment and of our culture. The term conservation means the action taken to prevent the decay of cultural heritage and conservation strategy means the method or the way that followed in conservation. Reutilization is one such method that used as a conservation strategy. The study deals with identifying the reutilization as a value oriented strategy used to preserve the values of a monument in architectural conservation of monuments. It identifies the concept of conservation as a philosophy and its development and it focuses attention on concept of reutilizing in architectural conservation. To discuss this issue colonial buildings in Anuradhapura are chosen as the case study. As such it paid attention on the history, evolution of the city and growth of conservation in Anuradhapura. Finally it can be realized that the quality of life of people depends on the physical conditions and spatial characteristics of society. As such conservation, rehabilitation, restoration and culturally sensitive adoptive reuse of urban, rural and architectural heritage are also in accordance with the sustainable use of natural and human made resources
item: Thesis-Abstract
A Study on the relationship between human behaviour and elements of common spaces in tertiary educational institutes
Perera, WUU
What is space? There are two ready answers to this question. One of them is spontaneously plausible. It conceives of space as a self contained entity, infinite or finite, an empty vehicle,· ready and having the capacity to be filled with things. Consciously or not, people derive this notion of space from the world as they see it, and unless they are psychologists, artists, or architects, they are unlikely ever to be confronted with the challenge of questioning it. Plato spoke in the Timaeus of space as "the mother and receptacle of all created and visible and in any way sensible things." He thought of it as ''the universal nature which receives all bodies -that must be always called the same; for while receiving all things she never departs at all from her own nature and never in any way or at any time assumes a form like that of any of the things which enter into her; she is the natural recipient of all impressions, and is stirred and informed by them, and appears different from time to time by reason of them." Space was for Plato a nothingness existing as an entity in the outer world, like the objects it could hold. In the absence of such objects, space would still exist, as an empty, boundless container.
item: Thesis-Abstract
The Role of 'Light' in expressions : understanding architecture, through the medium of photography
Perera, HMUJ; Rathnamalala, S
As an art, architecture is abstract and nonrepresentational and involves the manipulation of the relationships of spaces, volume, light, shape, colors, and depth etc ... etc ... in most architectural constructions there is no, one vantage point from which the whole structure can be understood.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Liquid architecture : hypersurface as an architectural idiom
Chandrasekera, T; Wijegunawardena, S
Architecture as a melting pot between the arts and sciences and as the study of the built environment has become a cross disciplinary platform for discussion and experimentation into an emerging Multi-Dimensional Digital Society. Architecture seeks to find harmony between pragmatics and poetics through phenomenological relationships of tectonics, placement, and culture. The choreography of these events, both physical and metaphysical, leads to a depth in the art of place making. Today Architecture is recasting itself, becoming, in part an experimental investigation of new geometries, those of the structure and flow of information, and of new socio-spatial organizations that move and change outside of conventional Cartesian co-ordinates. Architecture must grapple with new Virtual spaces and their relationship to the Physical spaces we inhabit. New architectural diagrams must be conceived and therein the digital revolution will be integrated into the very fabric of architectural discourse and practice
item: Thesis-Abstract
Colour and child : use of colour as a facilitator for kindergarten activity
Silva, S; Hettiarachchi, A
The genera] notion that chiJdren 'like' colours and the mere liveliness of their character adult ry to reflect by its use result in disatrous and alanning use of colour for children's spaces. It is evident in most play areas, kindergartens, nurseries etc. of our built environment. When the impact such spaces have on its primary users: children, is not comprehended, the activities of spaces suffocate from the lack of suitable ambience.
item: Thesis-Abstract
The Use of metaphysical principles as an expressive art of socio-cultural values in architecture with special reference to early Sri Lankan dwellings
Gunadasa, ALK; Rathnamalala, RMBSCK
Our ancestors' forebears of the animals and humans today, they created all the foods people eat, the plants, the rocks, the land forms, the water systems and the stars that guide travelers and mark the seasons in their movements. Human beings are an integral part of this whole system.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Minimalist approach in contemporary residential architecture in urban context
Manorima, BAPH; Gamage, A
Architecture is considered as a profession and the people who practice it - architects- are also considered as professionals. A professional is defined as; "Whena professional person agrees to provide his professional services to a client, and no contract exists with terms to the contrary, the professional owes a duty to the client to exercise reasonable, skill and care in conformity with the normal standards of his profession" (Janssens, D.E.L., Design Build Explained, 1991) So it is responsible of Architects to provide client with the desired physical and psychological comfort. Therefore it is important to facilitate meaningful architecture to eliminate inappropriate ornamentation and disquietingly ornate architecture, which ignore the spaciousness and meaning. Within above framework, this dissertation is an attempt to crystallize some thoughts About Minimalist Architecture, which can be seen as the pursuit of simplicity, as well as an ideal design approach which caters for essentialities out of different design approaches. Gradually people have to satisfy on small plot size of land. Also stressful life style makes the living in tight urban context more complex. So emphasis will be paid to Minimalist approach in contemporary residential in urban context. As the house should be a place of tranquility by banishing disorder, ostentation and vanity to feel it as the master of habitable space.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Space for child : study of the learning space of preschool child as a main interface of creativity
Premarathna, WAN; Gamage, A
Architecture today seems more commercialized and it does not look in to the quality of the spaces most of the time. The situation is same for each and every building type. Even though the buildings are designed the intended qualities of spaces are not enhanced within those and they seem to be mere buildings.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Urban home : an examination of the design of compact living with special reference to selected urban poor settlement
Dissanayake, DS
"Compact Living" in such compact spaces appears primarily with the reduction of the land available for the human habitation. concentration of the people around the limited resources where as in an urban context. Also the physical comfort of man partly depends on the affordability of them to get spatial need fulfilled. In the case the problem of "compact living" is crucial for the urban poor. So housing. the poor is considered as important in a developing process of a country or a state. The Sri Lankan government & some of non-governmental organization also have· going through such development project and provided housing for the urban poor. But unfortunately most of these houses and the housing scheme design by the Architect and Non- Architect have become failures with the negligence of target user group. It is visible in the physical change take place in the housing unit. And the housing scheme, and to returning familiar environments after selling the housing units offered. So at the end of every thing the problem to be solved remains unchanged. making the governing body seek for different solution.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Streets for urban living : an investigation of user and activity variations of selected urban streets at the metropolitan region of Colombo
Chandrasekera, MN; Rajapaksha, I
Urban development has evolved in a less than satisfactory manner since the beginning of the 20thcentury. More attention has been paid to urban design in terns of functional aspects neglecting the real requirement of the inhabitants. The application of such concepts has 'resulted in the disappearance of the street traditionally an essential element in the city. In the book `Architecture city sense’ the author states about the situation, “Cities with a variety of street scene, a road width of budding height, even when ugly are a source of joy and pride to their inhabitants, because they have identity. Cities which act in this way are almost airways old cities where idem if able buildings have accreted over the years. New towns, because of their newness and their separation of factions, lack identifiable elements. Old cities are all mined up; housing, shopping, of ices, workshops are all in the same street, often in the same building. This mates for the unity in diversitythe complexity; which is the essence of living in cities. Once functions are separated\ the city gees :c pieces. C.i might therefore produce an axiom that a city or a section of a city; does not depend on its sice, but on its arrangement. Given every possible function of the city; will create and sustain itself Given only one function, it will inevitably decays... ” The above quotation simply explains how much it’s worth :c veep and conserve the historic districts in cities. The mixed up functions unify the city with the original identity and may not let the city to be broken into separate places. It also shows the most vital qualities of streets, which should be retained in case of urbanisation. Therefore the streets and its intermediate spaces which play a \ital rcie in sustainable cities should be preserved in the process of urbanisation. The street is the matrix: urban chamber, fertile sek and breeding ground. Its viability depends as much on the right kind of architecture us on the right kind of humanity. The common character of building in such city estr.wishes an order among them and governs their relationships with the outside. The outside of the buildings, the streets and squares, thus lend to the shared commonality by being useful gathering spaces.Todays streets are left out from living arcus and only functions mere passageways from one point to another.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Building mass as the modification factor in achieving thermal comfort of urban canyons, in Colombo region
Gunawardena, KACM; Rajapaksha, U
From Stone Age to Modem Age humans have changed their surrounding environment to satisfy their comfort condition needs. People who lived in the tropical regions were trying to merge with their surrounding environment rather than fight against it. The dominant feature in tropics is, the lack of seasonal variations in temperature.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Cinema & architecture : structure, expression & meaning in modern and extension of modern period
Chaminda, JM; Rathnamalala, S
Analytical study is intended to be done by giving architecture and the cinema a one artistic entity W1th 1n the selected scope the coherence relationship is to be revealed through the study. This study is primarily based on in search of parallelism among architecture and other forms of arts for the purpose of meaningful creation of architecture. Special rsferc•tce is given here to the crnema as a parallel art stream Thts study rs pnmanly targeting on the core actrvrty of architectural design process. The response to a situation and developing a theme (concept) and achreving the intended form of art with in the theme are s~udied here. by making parallel study with the cinema it will be able to show the importance of awareness of other forms of art for the meaningful creation of architecture. By making theoretical survey on both art forms in relevance to the scope 1s used to burld a theoretrcal frame work for the study. By makrng practical discussion with the professronals in both streams is further used to strengthen and adjust the above frame work
item: Thesis-Full-text
Evaluative image along water fronts to enhance the city image : with special reference to water fronts in Colombo city
Wijewardana, TN; Munasinghe, J
Image is considered as a one's mental picture of his or her experience or memory. Similarly image is a product of both immediate sensation and of the memory of past experiences. As a result image is not an echo of the past totally the image of a place conststs of aU the elements associated with the experiences of individuals or groups and their intentions towards that place.
item: Thesis-Abstract
Evolution of elite-domestic architecture from British to decolonization : with special reference to maritime provinces of Sri lanka
Wijetunge, MNR; Rathnamalala, S; Jayatillake, S
It is evident that the glohal-space by the 151 h Century was experiencing a turbulent phase as a result of the integral and unavoidable links created by European colonia/isms between the 'East· and ·West· in an unprecedented manner. ln such a context, Europe was experiencing conflicts between some of its colonial contenders who strived for a colonial domination that was eventually felt in their colonial domains in the East.