Autumn 2024 Magazine
AHSS Magazine Autumn 2024 is now available online
This issue of the magazine explores the theme of ‘heritage at risk’. Of course, almost all of the AHSS’s work involves identifying, challenging, and mitigating risks to our architectural heritage. Our first feature, by Peter Drummond, explores the special risks surrounding fire in historic buildings to people and property. I note with sadness that several more case studies could have been added to his article in the month since it was submitted: Carlton Place (Glasgow), the former Larbert care home (Falkirk), Spiersfield House (Paisley), Dumbuck House Hotel (Dumbarton)… the list goes on.
One way to preserve some of the knowledge of these places is by recording them. Through photography, yes, detailed survey, naturally, but also, our second feature’s author argues, through the creative process of drawing. Willie Watt is a conservation accredited architect who uses sketching to understand and interrogate the built environment. Participants in his workshops must keenly observe their environment, working from macro to micro scale, to capture a place’s nuances, character, and what may be lost over time.
The next two features present Paisley’s mixed fortunes – on the one hand,VivienThomson discusses the conservation initiatives that have truly transformed the city’s central area. On the other, Duncan Macintosh presents the story of Kelvin House, where the council itself applied for the building’s demolition despite the site’s prominent location and architectural interest.
The incremental loss of an area’s character is a theme picked up by a report by Matthew Pease and Stephen Newsom on some councils’ support for applications that involve replacing Scottish slate with non-traditional types – within conservation areas and on listed buildings.
The final feature relates a short interview I undertook with one half of ‘the Accidental Renovators’ – a couple who accidentally bought a Victorian villa near Dunoon at auction. Those with a long ‘to do list’ at home and in need of some motivation, inspiration and perspective are advised to read it.
As always, there is a wonderful collection of reviews and local group reports to get stuck into. Many common casework challenges are noted, along with many fascinating activities and events. The National Trust for Scotland Chief Executive Philip Long’s ‘favourite building’ is, unsurprisingly, one of its properties. But it is in a rare category – an industrial building – and one that is often undervalued. Joining the AHSS helps the organisation to ‘speak for Scotland’s buildings’ of all kinds. So, with Christmas on the horizon, consider gifting a membership to someone interested in protecting our architectural heritage.
AHSS Members can access the entire digital archive as part of their subscription.
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