Stucco in mid-war Cracow architecture Esthetic, conservation, protection

This paper discusses selected issues concerning protection and conservation of rendered surfaces in buildings erected during the mid-war period. The topic has previously been visited by scholars, however increased renovation work, new materials introduced to conservation practice and gradual degradation bring about a threat to this resource. Still, the Modernist architecture of the mid-war era has not been widely recognised. Uncontrolled adaptive use projects (such as the addition of thermal insulation, general renovation and the refreshing of façades) have caused irreversible damage to these historic structures.
The area of research covers Cracow and buildings erected mainly during the 1930’s. Case studies and interviews with art restorers allow the presentation chief causes of damage, state of conservation along with core dilemmas and contemporary practice for conservation and renovation of Modernist stuccos. The need of overall protection of the resource is suggested in conclusion.