Methodical approaches to revitalization and renovation of historical buildings (analysis of experience)

Abstract

The article discusses the terms “revitalization” and “renovation” in the context of preserving historical buildings and architectural monuments. It states that the professional standards for the terms “revitalization” and “renovation” are absent and conceptually blurred due to the uncertainty in their methodological principles. The same reasons explain the synonymous use of parallel terms (rehabilitation, regeneration, revalorization, restitution), the essence of which is vague. The reason for this phenomenon is the search of possibilities to modernize the heritage sites and adapt them to the public needs by expanding the range of professional methods which would involve applying to the degraded architectural monuments the actions of a broader range than the restoration requires, and which would form methodological approaches for such type of work.

Systematic theoretical researches of this subject are absent. Separate works do not provide an answer to this question either. Therefore the article views the practical experience in the field of revitalization and renovation in Poland (Manufaktura in Łódź), France (Musée d'Orsay in Paris), Netherlands (National Museum in Amsterdam), Germany (Neues Museum in Berlin, Moritzburg Museum in Halle, diocesan museum in Cologne), Spain (CaixaForum in Madrid), which demonstrates related approaches and sometimes controversial concepts. The mentioned objects are those that were positively accepted by the society. They are united by the monofunction (museums), which allowed to apply a single conceptual principle for the revitalization (renovation) of objects. The credibility of their image is largely caused by the high quality of modern materials and the execution of work at the highest technological level. The article emphasizes the need for scientific analysis of a wider range of typologically different objects for the purpose of professional reflection, generalization of methodological approaches and development of legislative principles.