Peculiarities of the participative methodology application in the process of revitalization of the architectural heritage of the Yerevan historical district of Kond in Armenia

This study underscores the importance of a participatory methodology in reevaluating and reimagining the architectural heritage of the Yerevan Kond Historic District in Armenia. The Kond district holds tremendous historical significance, encompassing diverse cultural heritage, architectural styles, and community identities. Preservation and revitalization efforts for this district face challenges in striking a balance between historical authenticity and meeting the evolving needs of its inhabitants. The research advocates for a participatory approach that engages local communities in the conservation and revitalization process. By involving the local people, the aim is to ensure that the district's architectural heritage is preserved meaningfully to the community and enhances their sense of ownership and pride in their architectural heritage. Furthermore, it endeavors to generate sustainable architectural interventions that balance preserving historical authenticity and meeting contemporary needs. It contributes to the district's economic revitalization, protects its architectural legacy, and fosters cultural understanding. Emphasizing sustainability, the study integrates inclusive decision-making and innovative architectural practices, offering a potential model for global revitalization. By fostering inclusive decision-making processes and integrating innovative architectural practices, this approach can revitalize the district while preserving its unique cultural identity and further facilitate the creation of innovative, sustainable, and contextually sensitive solutions. Through a comprehensive research approach, this study explores the historical context, architectural typologies, socio-cultural dynamics, and current challenges faced by the Kond district. It argues that participatory methodology is essential for the conservation of architectural heritage in the 21st century, as traditional top-down approaches have often proven ineffective. The participatory methodology ensures conservation projects are sustainable and beneficial to local communities. The outcomes aim to formulate a community-centered vision for Kond's future, with findings relevant to historic areas globally navigating similar challenges in contemporary architectural heritage reimagining.