Evaluating the level of success of architectural conservation interventions : [an exploratory study based in Sri Lanka]

Abstract

Sri Lanka, despite its rich history of architectural conservation, faces challenges in evaluating the level of success of conservation interventions due to the absence of a standardized evaluation mechanism. Current evaluations tend to be ad-hoc, case- specific, subjective, and inconsistent. Hence, this research aimed to address this gap by developing an ‘Architectural Conservation Rating System of Sri Lanka (ACRS-SL)’, a standardized, objective, yet flexible framework for evaluating conservation interventions. The study undertook a comprehensive review of existing literature, analysing factors and criteria influencing the level of success of conservation interventions, through thematic analysis. Accordingly, 61 evaluation criteria, including 03 mandatory and 58 general criteria, under 12 sub themes and 04 corresponding major themes were identified. Furthermore, the ACRS-SL system has adopted an ‘Average Percentage Score System’ to replace the ‘Weighted Cumulative Score Systems’ in previous research attempts, providing greater flexibility and adaptability to different contexts. To minimize subjectivity, a two-way assessment model has been proposed to be implemented, ensuring more accurate evaluations through cross-checking. Conservation experts’ input from in-depth interviews and application to 12 diverse test cases in Sri Lanka helped to refine the rating system and validate its applicability across different degrees of interventions and, various building typologies, historical periods, and conservation challenges. While this research did not critically analyse individual test cases upon the rated scores, it presents a foundation for future studies to further validate and refine the system. The potential development of ACRS-SL into a web or mobile-based application is also recommended to enhance its practical use. In conclusion, the ACRS-SL system offers an objective yet flexible and adaptable approach to evaluating architectural conservation interventions, providing a standardized tool that can be applied globally to improve the planning, decision-making, and outcomes of architectural conservation projects.