Section 3

Heritage-care Etiquette

You can plan load-in perfectly and still lose a carved panel to a guest leaning a glass against it. Etiquette is the part of heritage care that depends on everyone in the room, so it has to be communicated well.

Why a short briefing works

Most people treat historic buildings with respect once they understand why. A two-line note in an invitation, a sentence from the emcee and a quiet word from staff do more than a list of prohibitions. Explain what is special about the place and the rules make sense on their own. For example, a guest who knows that the figures on a roof are made from individually cut pieces of porcelain — read how qian ci roof ornament is made — is unlikely to lean on a gable or flick ash near it.

Open flame

Candles near old timber, lacquer and textiles are the classic heritage risk. Many venues ban open flame entirely or permit it only in specific holders in specific places. LED candles are now convincing enough for most styling. If real flame is permitted, confirm placement, holder type and who is responsible for extinguishing them.

Smoking and vaping

Treat the whole building as non-smoking unless the venue designates a spot, which will usually be outside the protected envelope. Brief guests on where that spot is; people who cannot find it improvise.

Shoes and floors

Fine heels can dent old timber and chip tiles. You do not need to police footwear, but where floors are delicate a gentle note in the invitation helps, and heel protectors can be offered at the door. Mats at entrances catch grit, which is the main cause of scratching.

Touching ornament

Carvings, gilding and painted panels are fragile and difficult to repair. Oils from hands darken gold over time. Encourage guests to look closely but not touch. Keep bars and buffet stations away from walls with ornament, so that people do not rest plates and glasses on them.

Flash, lights and drones

Occasional flash photography is generally not the concern it once was for most architectural surfaces, but some venues restrict it in galleries or near light-sensitive objects. Ask. Professional lighting rigs give off heat; keep lamps clear of timber and textiles. Drones are another matter: flying them is regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, and many central areas have restrictions. Do not assume a drone shot is possible; check the rules and ask the venue first.

Children

Old buildings are wonderful for children and full of temptations: steps to jump, panels to touch, ponds and drains to explore. If children attend, plan a supervised corner with activities and brief parents on any hazards such as raised thresholds and open courtyards.

Suppliers

Florists, stylists, caterers and AV crews need a more detailed briefing than guests. Share the house rules in writing, and repeat the key points on the day. Typical points: no fixings, no adhesives on historic surfaces, no water-filled vessels directly on timber, no ladders against ornament, food and drink only in agreed zones.