5.4.4 Backward Protection Concepts

5.4.4 Backward Protection Concepts

Figure 5-23.The Destruction of the Original Surrounding of Lao She House(https://www.daowen.com)

The concept of authenticity and integrity protection concepts are not applied in the preservation practice of personalities’ residences in Jinan.In international policy, the protection of architectural heritage ranges from individual building, building groups and surroundings to the entire historic block.The protection of Jinan notable residences is still limited to the individual building and courtyard alone.The surroundings around the residences are neglected (Fig.5-23).Not to mention the protection of the entire neighborhood, which is woefully inadequate.Especially due to the high population density, traffic congestion of Jinan, the scale of new urban areas has increasingly become denser and congested, encroaching on historical land areas.Given the pressures of urban development, it is increasingly difficult to preserve the original surroundings of these former residences.

In addition, authentic materials are often replaced by new materials of improper specifications.Although the development of new materials and new technology supports the preservation of the historic buildings, improper use of these new materials destroys their authenticity, and weakens the sense of history.Meanwhile, the lack of original life scenes and intangible cultural spirit degrades the atmosphere of history as well.For example, the restored Lao She’s house does not correspond to the time when Lao She lived here.The original story and atmosphere have been lost.Therefore, the protection and revitalization of the intangible cultural elements of residences, carrying it forward in contemporary society is also an important issue, which should be the final goal of the preservation and development for memorial residences.