A morphological analysis of redundant farm steadings on Deeside.

The objective of this study was to examine the state of redundancy of farm buildings and the potential loss to the rural landscape and, using an objective method of analysis, to establish the potential for re-use. The Geographical scope of the study is outlined giving the context of traditional land tenure and the historic and current relationship of the hinterland to the city of Aberdeen. The demographic profile was established and the criteria for selection of the buildings are outlined. The traditional patterns of settlement and the historic background to the development of these in N.E. Scotland were examined. The vernacular architecture of the farm and the architecture of the steading are described. The current state of farming was assessed and the consequent availability of surplus buildings established. Kincardine and Deeside District Council (now Aberdeenshire Council - South) made available their files for planning application for the period 1986-91. The procedure of analysis followed to select suitable cases for study is explained and a subsequent comparative analysis of 19 applications identified is described. The methodology of ‘Space Syntax’ was applied to give a quantifiable and objective analysis of the relationship of the spaces or rooms within each plan, both existing and proposed. Fifteen steadings were analysed (Appendix VII) using Space Syntax. From these results a comparative analysis is given. The remaining four case studies are referred to, one to illustrate the methodology in Chapter IV, and three in Appendices VI, VIII & IX. It was established that there was limited demand for alternative uses for redundant steadings other than for conversion to dwellings. In the remoter areas there was little development beyond the obtaining of outline consents. Most of the conversions proposed involved complex re-organisation of the spaces coupled with new interventions, yet by the application of space syntax it was demonstrated that with limited subdivision and intervention a successful conversion can be achieved.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Robert Gordon University

Year dc:date.issued

1999

Author dc:creator

• Donald, Marion C.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• S. Baxter, J. Brady, W. Brogden and J. Donald

• Redundant farm steadings
• Deeside
• North-East Scotland
• Traditional land tenure
• Space syntax

Language dc:language

en

Identifier

oai:rgu-repository.worktribe.com:2807367
https://doi.org/10.48526/rgu-wt-2807367

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:rgu-repository.worktribe.com:2807367