Kintsugi: Repairing Gaps Within the Victorian Home, An Integration of Aesthetics and Performance

Abstract

In a world captivated by novelty and efficiency, repairs in built heritage are reactive, functional acts rather than opportunities for architectural expression. Philosophies such as kintsugi and wabi-sabi reveal the beauty of imperfection and visible mending, offering a counterpoint: repairs as gestures that respect, rather than overwrite, character while improving function. This dissertation explores how such principles might inform retrofitting Victorian timber sash windows, where inconspicuous draughtproofing interventions address both performance and aesthetics. Through experimental airtightness testing (fan pressurisation and tracer gas method) combined with participant-based aesthetic evaluation, six commercially available draughtproofing systems were analysed for their capacity to unite technical and visual considerations. Results show E-profile draughtproofing can significantly reduce air leakage while preserving aesthetic acceptance across diverse sensibilities. The findings suggest that repair can be reframed as visible, thoughtful continuation—an act of architectural storytelling that integrates technical enhancement with the celebratory preservation of time, care, and imperfection.

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ORCID for Stephanie Gauthier: orcid.org/0000-0002-1720-1736

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