As part of the ongoing UREHERIT project a new memorandum titled Materials and Technologies in Restoration has been released, focusing on the crucial role of materials and technologies in the restoration of Ukrainian cultural heritage. This memorandum aims to support Ukrainian architects by providing valuable knowledge, methods, and strategies for restoring and rebuilding Ukraine’s architectural heritage. Furthermore, it promotes knowledge exchange between European and Ukrainian architects, strengthening collaboration across borders.
The memorandum was developed by leading experts from The Royal Danish Academy, including Henriette Ejstrup and Ulrik Stylsvig Madsen, in collaboration with the National Union of Architects of Ukraine (NUAU) and key Ukrainian scholars, including Olena Oliynyk, Mariana Kaplinska, and Ihor Bokalo.
Scope and Objectives of the Memorandum
The memorandum serves as an important step in shaping Ukraine’s national strategies for preserving architectural heritage. It highlights recent trends in restoration and outlines key interventions, whether within or between monuments. By emphasizing the importance of prioritizing political, economic, and professional efforts, the document aims to guide decision-making processes for heritage preservation in Ukraine.
The content of the memorandum is set to inform The Royal Danish Academy’s next work package (D3.5), which will culminate in a workshop on practical knowledge, scheduled for May 2025. The results from this workshop will be compiled into a final report due for publication in July 2025.
Approach and Structure of the Memorandum
The memorandum is divided into two main sections:
- Recent Trends in Restoration and Architectural Heritage in Ukraine
This section begins with an article by Olena Oliynyk that explores the latest trends in heritage restoration, offering a Ukrainian perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced in the field. A supplementary review by Mariana Kaplinska and Ihor Bokalo examines the impact of modern materials on historical architecture, with a particular focus on the conservation of wooden architecture.
- Analytical Discussion on Materials and Technologies in Heritage
The second part of the memorandum presents an in-depth discussion of the needs and gaps in knowledge regarding materials and technologies for heritage restoration. This section is informed by observations from the first phase of the UREHERIT project (2023-2024) and the insights shared at key conferences held in Lviv (October 13, 2023) and Stockholm (May 14, 2024). The discussions, led by Ulrik Stylsvig Madsen and Henriette Ejstrup, focus on sustainable approaches to restoration and the role of modern materials in preserving historical structures.
Key Topics Covered:
- Sustainable Development Principles in Cultural Heritage Restoration – Article by Olena Oliynyk
- The Influence of Modern Materials on Historic Architecture – Analysis by Ihor Bokalo and Mariana Kaplinska
- The Need for Knowledge on Materials and Technologies in Heritage Preservation – Insights by Ulrik Stylsvig Madsen and Henriette Ejstrup
The Importance of Knowledge Sharing in Heritage Preservation
The release of this memorandum underscores the importance of international cooperation and knowledge sharing in the field of architectural heritage preservation. The UREHERIT project continues to facilitate cross-border dialogue, enabling Ukrainian architects to draw from European expertise and methodologies for the restoration of their national heritage. By combining local knowledge with international best practices, the project aims to foster a more sustainable, culturally sensitive approach to heritage preservation in Ukraine.
The memorandum provides essential guidance for professionals and policymakers in the field of heritage conservation, helping to create a common ground for action based on shared knowledge and sustainable practices.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author (s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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Report: UREHERIT_Report-Materials-and-technologies-in-restoration.pdf (PDF, 1.2MB)
