Faculty of
Architecture and Civil Engineering

What is building research?

Building research deals with the creation, development and preservation of historical buildings. Its specialization lies in the detailed examination and documentation of buildings in order to record their structural condition and their cultural-historical context. The precise examination of construction history is particularly relevant for existing buildings, as it forms the basics for well-founded planning and critically scrutinizes interventions in historical substance.

Historical background and discipline

Building research was introduced as a scientific discipline in 19xx. Today, it is an important component of dealing with existing buildings - both in practical experience and in research. It covers a broad spectrum from prehistory to the 20th century and is divided into two main areas:

• Historical building research
• Archaeological building research

Questions and methods

Building research answers questions about function, appearance and design, internal organization, building structures and details from different construction phases. The exact measurement of the building is a central step in reliably reconstructing its condition and development.

Only thorough documentation - through plans, photographic documentation or room books - makes it possible to recognize anomalies and findings and to develop a comprehensive understanding of the building.

The building as a primary source

The most important source for building research is always the building itself. All assumptions regarding use, time of origin, structural changes or unfinished plans are primarily based on findings on the building itself.

In addition to reconstructing historical contexts, building research also investigates technical solutions. Historical buildings are regarded as long-term experiments that can be used to test the sustainability of design and construction approaches - findings that are particularly relevant today with regard to resource-saving and energy-saving technologies.

Building research in studies

In the project studies of the degree programs architecture and Architectural Heritage building research is firmly anchored. It makes an important contribution to the preservation of historical monuments and at the same time supports a conscious, reflective approach to building. Historical buildings are not only preserved, but are also seen as a source of inspiration and a sustainable resource for current construction projects.