The design of protective structures for the conservation and presentation of archaeological sites

This study addresses the issue of designing protective structures at archaeological sites. Because the design of these structures often lacks an approach that collectively addresses issues of conservation, presentation, and values of an archaeological site, a better understanding of all design aspects is needed. Additionally, because designing a protective structure at an archaeological site has frequently been seen as a construction project with an immediate need, the ultimate result of a protection attempt is often an ineffective and controversial new intervention. The study catalogues and discusses various design aspects concerned, and focuses on the formulation of a "design methodology" for these structures. The aim is not to provide ready made solutions but to identify practical and effective planning guidelines for architects and site managers. The hub of this research is based on literature studies and field investigations. In the context of "protective sheltering", the research examines: 1) development and relevance of philosophies and processes in the field of heritage conservation and management, 2) previous practical examples of protective structures erected in various parts of the world, and 3) technical aspects in the fields of conservation, environmental control, and climatic architectural design. Design criteria, methods, and available means are accordingly identified to respond to site presentation and conservation requirements. Primarily, these include architectural responses to physical conditions and environmental stability at an archaeological site. Two case studies in England and Jordan were selected to further refine, test, and illustrate the design methodology. Being of different climatic, cultural, and administrative contexts, design options were accordingly devised. Assessment of climatic design options, aimed at reducing daily environmental fluctuations, helped develop the design of protective structures, which act as first lines of defence against weather conditions. To finalise design decisions, the effect of "passive" solutions, inasmuch as possible, was initially investigated. The study concludes by drawing up planning and design guidelines in this area. These are translations of the insights gained from this research into practical solutions. This is the first time that guidelines of this kind have been prepared for this interdisciplinary field of research