Documentation Concept in Architecture “Documentation and Analytic Study of Foreigner’s Architecture in Basra City”

Abstract

It has been noted that many distinguished buildings are neglected and sometimes destroyed due to misuse, carelessness or environmental factors. Some of these buildings contain evidence of architectural merits that form part of the national heritage. Documentation of architectural significant buildings is essential and vital for preservation and conservation purposes. Such documentation must be systematic, accurate and true in representing distinctive qualities; and must follow an appropriate procedures. This paper reviews relevant literature which relates to documentation procedures and tries to apply it to various merited buildings in the city of Basra (1914-1958) when many buildings were built by none-Iraqi architects.It was evident that no study was conducted to list these buildings, especially the major landmarks in Basra. It sets parameters for methodological documentation and applies to various examples in Basra which was affected by colonial style in this period. The paper presents,also,various findings relevant to this issue.