One of the most aggressive agents influencing change to built landscapes is the user. This usage is influenced by many factors such as the activities and functions available, climatic factors, the time of day, the day of the week and seasonal variations. In structural terms, usage is a form of mechanical loading which can be static or dynamic and exerts force upon the structure. Repeated cycles of use therefore lead to wear and tear; the intensity and frequency of these interactions dictate the impact of these forces over time.
This paper will explore the conflicts between the built landscape and its users by analysing the evolving signs and symptoms of various forms of use, abuse and use appropriation throughout the city of Berlin. Abuse refers to the impact of wilful destruction which is a form of criminal vandalism. In addition, `passive´ vandalism in the form of use appropriation or unintentional destruction can occur.
The visible traces of use and abuse are embedded in the form of wear, erosion, organic sediments, pollution, dirt and vegetation growth on the surfaces of built works. By applying the principles of construction pathology this patina can be `read´ and deciphered, the influencing factors determined and optimisation strategies established. Current research at the Technische Universität Berlin is based on the hypothesis that it is possible to optimise design, detailing, construction and maintenance techniques through continued analysis of project development at regular intervals after completion. The data resulting from the research enables a detailed interpretation of the impact of use and abuse as well as a deeper understanding of the causative processes involved. Case studies from the research project will be presented, illustrating and analysing the conflicts between user actions and the built landscape
