Conservative Progressive Approach to Cultural Heritage: Experience of Adaptation of the “Ensemble ‘Complex of estates of M. D. Meredin and P. A. Nechkin’”

In the modern practice of preserving cultural heritage sites, adapting these sites to museum functions is a common, but by no means a simple solution. Despite the apparent ease, this process requires taking into account both engineering and restoration aspects, as well as preserving the historical value and internal logic of the site. There is a shortage of specific practical examples of the successful implementation of such projects. The purpose of the study is to present the experience of adapting the Cultural Heritage Site of regional significance "Ensemble "Complex of Estates of M.D. Meredin and P.A. Nechkin" (Nevyansk, Sverdlovsk Region) to accommodate the Nevyansk Icon Museum, with an emphasis on preserving historical features and adapting to modern requirements. General theoretical methods (analysis, synthesis, analogy, modeling), analysis of the regulatory framework, case analysis were used. The following was carried out: analysis of modern principles of organizing museum space; study of the history of the building and territory to identify space-planning features and construct the logic of the object; analysis of the requirements for the museum exposition for correlation with the logic of the building; generalization of experience in adapting buildings for museum functions; implementation of modern engineering requirements, fire safety requirements and conditions for people with disabilities. Adaptation of cultural heritage sites for museum functions requires a deep understanding of the historical context. A modern museum should adapt to a historical building, preserving its authenticity and forming visitors’ experience and values. The article focuses on the lack of specific successful examples in the scientific literature. It is important to combine a conservative approach to restoration with progressive solutions in organizing museum space. The case of the M. D. Meredin and P. A. Nechkin estate complex demonstrates the possibility of integrating a historical site into a modern cultural environment. A thorough analysis of the site’s history, including archival materials, is necessary to determine optimal solutions for preservation and adaptation. Modern engineering requirements should take into account the historical appearance of the building. Adaptation of the site is possible with a deep study of history, preservation of authenticity and a combination of conservation and progressive solutions. The conducted research will be useful for specialists in the field of museology and preservation of cultural heritage, as well as practitioners in the field of cultural management dealing with issues of adapting historical objects for museum spaces.