Abstract
This study was conducted in the hopes of probing the tension between the economic uses and socio-historical aspects of CHIJMES through adaptive reuse. The team conducted extensive research into historical backgrounds of similar heritage entities which were transformed in their uses. Further studies made were the reactions and underlying tensions with regards to a deconsecrated church maintaining its facade yet at the same time, having a government body stipulate its use as an entertainment hub.A relatively young country, Singapore is beginning to realize the importance of conservation. This research explores the arising tension between economic viability and preservation of heritage as a result of adaptive usage. Adaptive reuse is defined as the preservation of physical facade while reconstructing uses that might not be reflective of its original uses (Henderson, 2010). Studies have shown this mechanism has both its pros and cons. Our subject of research, the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus Chapel (CHIJ) is one of the two religious affiliated buildings that undertook a functional conversion and was constructed as an entertainment spot. The philosophy guiding Singapore’s conservation process reflects the notion that the importance of physical appearance over its historical merits. The underlying commerce motivated ethos, reinforced by an economic impetus, is important in determining the state of conservation.
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