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Building our craft in conservation

3D scanning exercises as part of the MAArC programme. Image: David Liauw.
3D scanning exercises as part of the MAArC programme. Image: David Liauw.

by Serene Tng

for Urban Redevelopment Authority

Working with LiDAR technology, experimenting with lime plaster, making stained-glass artwork – hear from professionals who are equipping themselves with new skills to advance their craft in the conservation and repair work of our beloved landmarks.

With over 7,200 conserved buildings as well as national monuments that require continuous care, we catch up with David Liauw, director, DP Architects and Tan Peng Ting, senior planner at URA on their passion in protecting and enhancing our historic gems, and why it is important to build up our capabilities in conservation work.

Why did you decide to deepen your knowledge and skills in conservation work by joining the National University of Singapore (NUS)’s Master of Arts in Architectural Conservation (MAArC) programme?

David: There is currently a severe lack of conservation professionals in the building industry although there is no lack of architects trying to do conservation projects. While going back to school in my late career was not an easy decision, I wanted to do it for my own personal growth and to also contribute more significantly to conservation work. It was great to meet like-minded professionals and experts from different stages of their careers, sharing the same passion for our built heritage.

Senior planner Tan Peng Ting (in the front row on the right of the lady in pink T-shirt) with her MAArC classmates. Image: Tan Peng Ting.
Senior planner Tan Peng Ting (in the front row on the right of the lady in pink T-shirt) with her MAArC classmates. Image: Tan Peng Ting.

Peng Ting: As a planner in URA’s conservation planning department, while I was familiar with the planning and policy aspects of conservation work, I had to quickly learn on the job and familiarise myself with Singapore’s architectural and building material history. The programme enabled me to acquire more formal training in the technical aspects of building restoration. It was also versatile in allowing me to do it part-time so I could balance my family and job commitments. It allowed me to connect with my heritage, as my family was very much involved in the early building industries.

Tell us more about your conservation-related work.

David: I have worked with DP Architects for nearly 30 years. When I returned to Singapore after working with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill in San Francisco, one of the first projects I was assigned to work on was the conservation of my alma mater, St Andrew’s School.

 

Read more at Urban Redevelopment Authority.