Evaluation of functional change in the scope of reuse of historical buildings: The example of Historical Bitlis Town Hall

Abstract

Historical buildings, which have become dysfunctional over time as they are inadequate to meet the changing needs of the age, are kept alive by re-functioning within the scope of conservation methods. The research aims to contribute to re-evaluating the Historical Bitlis Town Hall which has an important value with its historical identity and local architectural features, and its transfer to the future. The building was used for different purposes in short periods, including Water and Bus Management, Art Center, Police and Traffic Directorate. In its last state, it was determined that it was named Historical Bitlis Büryan Hall and was re-functioned far from its original identity. In this regard, the functional changes were examined chronologically by scanning the archives within the framework of national and international conservation criteria and using the participant observation method of the structure. Descriptive analysis was conducted to find in line with qualitative research methods. In conclusion, during the functionalization process, the importance of adopting a respectful and harmonious approach in function selection has been revealed in order to keep the historical architectural texture and the meaning it creates in urban memory alive without losing it.