The transformation of 20th-century heritage: a case study of the musealization of the Cité Frugés in Pessac

Abstract The preservation of 20th-century architectural heritage represents a crucial challenge in contemporary contexts, increasingly shaped by tourist pressure and gentrification dynamics. This heritage, which embodies groundbreaking technological advancements and a radical shift in architectural paradigms, constitutes a valuable cultural resource that demands rigorous, multidisciplinary, and innovative approaches to both its conservation and enhancement. The international discourse on architectural preservation underscores the inherent complexity of this endeavor, which requires engaging with high-quality yet often underappreciated or insufficiently studied works from the recent past. This research focuses on the Cité Frugès in Pessac as a case study to explore a heritage transformation strategy based on a progressive musealization process. Rather than limiting itself to the mere material conservation of the built environment, the project envisions a controlled transformation that integrates the study of the site’s historical phases, architectural evolution, and socio-cultural development. The proposed approach aims to reconcile preservation with adaptive reuse, allowing the site to respond to contemporary needs while safeguarding its historical and architectural identity.