Dissecting architecture : defining the pieces worth keeping

This thesis addresses a growing tension between heritage

conservation and the pressures of urban densification. The First Baptist

Church is recognized by the city of Ottawa as a site containing cultural

value. Preserving architecture is an attempt to maintain physical qualities

that create links to the past. Analogous to Leonardo da Vinci’s anatomical

studies, drawing can reveal the tangible and intangible qualities of a

historic building. An architectural dissection of the First Baptist Church

energizes hidden knowledge through drawing, language and architectural

detailing. Hidden layers narrate historic events that demonstrate how the

congregation used the building to grow and evolve. Their understanding

of the structure's permanent and malleable parts inform a system of

adaptable architecture. The Church reveals its cultural value and inspires

the creation of new architecture. Uncovered and remaining pieces from

a virtual dissection catalyze design of a new main branch for the Ottawa

Public Library.