Palimpsest: The Future of the Past

Abstract

Palimpsest is a manuscript or parchment that has been reused by writing over the original writing, sometimes more than once. Scarcity has driven this practice of reuse. Here it is expanded into an appreciation of a representation that reveals past and present as the core for the study of heritage preservation by design. This paper seeks to propose a framework that applies tradition and modernity with the aim to preserve heritage and acquire modernity simultaneously. It begins by evaluating the meaning of heritage and its value, followed by introducing 'palimpsest' as a design concept framework for future design practice. In this study, 'palimpsest' examples from different fields are examined. Relationships between heritage, design value, culture and identity are identified with the intention to enrich the quality of design as a complete perspective on which to build future heritage. This study concludes with a concept framework that presents patterns that demonstrate practical ways in which heritage preservation can complement and support contemporary life.