The Use of Glass Materials in the Design of Contemporary Extensions to Historic Buildings

Abstract

Many structures met the requirements of the time when they were built but could not meet the needs of today's conditions and, therefore, could not be used (Feilden, 2003). Historical buildings may wear out over time or face the danger of extinction. The structure can be damaged by natural disasters, human factors or just the return of time. Cultural heritage must be preserved in order to transfer it to future generations and to prevent the destruction of structures. A multidisciplinary study should be carried out in stages such as determining the causes of wear in the protection of the buildings, determining the damage to the structures and choosing the materials and techniques to be used in the restoration (Uğurlu & Böke, 2009). Reusing these structures by giving them a different function, instead of causing economic and environmental damage by demolishing and rebuilding them, is a method that has been frequently used in recent years. This situation is especially seen in very old but still intact structures. However, historical buildings may need extensions for their new functions, as they are sized according to the function of the old period. Extension structures can be located on the roof or a facade of historical buildings, or they can be built by forming an outer shell or completing the historical structure without touching the historical buildings. Emphasizing the changes and extensions made in the historical building within the scope of refunctioning, attracting attention, or creating harmonious integrity is ensured by the way the material is used and the design.