Looking up from the plan

Copeland, Penny (2016) Looking up from the plan. Theoretical Archaeology Group Conference 2016 (TAG 2016), Southampton, United Kingdom. 19 - 21 Dec 2016.

Abstract

The most common form of visual representation of a building is through a plan of the ground floor, used for both truncated archaeological remains and for full height multi storey buildings. The plan form, so beloved by archaeologists, should however be considered a shorthand for standing buildings, a ‘map’ for orientation and a very abbreviated view of the layout. We also interpret them for activities within the building and the effectiveness of this can be variable, particularly when we are trying to read a more experiential history from the evidence. These traditional techniques are not produced objectively, but are the results of constant decision making so what do we project onto these plans from our own lives about the people who lived in these buildings? And what are we missing with them? The need for more detailed recording has been discussed in the past, but perhaps we should revisit this argument in the light of the vastly increased 3d recording and representation opportunities with modern technology. We can now produce full height elevations as easily as plans and for timber frame buildings these are invaluable. But are we simply producing elevations to be used like plans for form and function arguments? Can we use the ability to record increased detail and the new forms of data in more imaginative ways with a greater awareness of the ‘lived experience’ of occupants of historic buildings? Among other examples, I will look at Chawton House in Hampshire where a student survey project has highlighted the historic problem of creating plans of a difficult building.

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