An Evaluation of the Contemporary Addition Concept in the Context of International Regulations: Example of Adana Archeological Museum

Abstract

Historic buildings are important elements of urban and social life in their environment. They stand as testaments to historical civilizations. As social phenomena in effect changes over time, historic buildings get physically wear and lose their function. Unused historical structures are subject to destruction due to structural degradation. However, historic buildings must be protected and sustained due to their unique cultural value. Preservation of historic buildings can be made possible by reuse and reintegration into society. Contemporary additions are made to buildings in order to provide continuity of use by re-functionalizing in accordance with modern needs and requirements. The subject of contemporary additions to historic buildings has been addressed by regulations to this day and currently the qualities of new additions constitutes an important discussion topic around the world. In the scope of this study, the concept of contemporary addition required for re-functionalization as an approach to preserving historic structures, will be defined by international regulations, and the example of The Adana Archeology Museum, the compliance of contemporary addition implementations with international regulations and declarations will be evaluated. Finally, whether these applications meet the requirements of the concept of contemporary addition will be discussed.