Restoration project of Buyukada Greek Primary School

Buyukada Greek Primary School which was built in 1914 in Prince Islands, Istanbul is the subject of the thesis. The aim is to prepare the conservation project that will preserve the characteristics and the historical value of the building and hand over to the future so that it can regain its position in the cultural life of Istanbul and among the Greek Community. The study consists of several chapters starting from a large scale then focusing on the building in the means of its location, architectural elements, historical value and essential interventions for the conservation of the structure. Another crucial point is to offer a sustainable function for the maintenance of the building. The first chapter explains the aim and the method of study and it is followed by more specific information about the location of the building. Besides from its geographical position, the second chapter mentions about the historical, social and economic evolution of the building's environment. The third chapter consists of a detailed documentation about the current situation of the building supported with the survey, photographs and drawings. It also includes the analysis about the building materials, architectural elements and their deteriorations. The fourth chapter of the thesis is focused on the historical and morphological development of Greek primary school buildings and its reflection on Buyukada Greek Primary School. The history of the building is revealed by the contribution of historical maps, photographs, written sources and personal interviews with the building's former users. Supporting documentation is also provided by the researches held in private and state archives. After clarifying the original form of the building, the interventions it had come through are enlightened and classified periodically into four groups. It is supported with restitution drawings and chronological analysis. The fifth chapter is devoted for the conservation project and the function proposal of the building. Accordingly, the interventions for the conservation of the building are divided into several groups under the title of liberation, consolidation, reintegration and renovation. The function proposal is developed regarding the historic and aesthetic value of the building and it is integrated to the plans without harming the building's structural integrity, plan scheme and authentic features. Buyukada Greek Primary School was chosen as the subject of the thesis as it is a favourable example among the Greek primary school buildings of 19th and 20th centuries. Besides the intangible heritage value, the buildings also has the characteristic features, special details, construction techniques and the architectural perception of its time. As a cultural heritage, it is essential to preserve the building for future generations with all its authentic contents.