Short answer

When designing for heritage sites, move beyond a singular, authoritative interpretation and actively engage with the multiplicity of meanings and values held by different communities.

Field: Classic Design
Source: International Journal of Heritage Studies (2017)
Method: Qualitative research, Stakeholder analysis
Evidence: Strong effect

The perceived value and interpretation of heritage sites are significantly influenced by the power structures and historical narratives surrounding them, rather than solely by their inherent aesthetic or historical qualities. This classic design research insight is drawn from a 2017 study published in International Journal of Heritage Studies. Using Qualitative research, stakeholder analysis, researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: When designing for heritage sites, move beyond a singular, authoritative interpretation and actively engage with the multiplicity of meanings and values held by different communities.

Study

Classic DesignHigh ImpactStrong effect

Heritage site interpretation is shaped by power dynamics, not just aesthetics

International Journal of Heritage Studies · 2017

Key Findings

01Official discourse often frames Native American heritage sites through an archaeological lens, aligning with settler colonial ideologies.
02This framing can obscure connections to contemporary peoples and erase histories of colonialism and dispossession.
03Diverse constituencies hold conflicting and congruent views on the value of contested heritage sites.
04The term 'cultural heritage' itself is understood differently by various groups, especially Native Americans.

Application

Design takeaway

When designing for heritage sites, move beyond a singular, authoritative interpretation and actively engage with the multiplicity of meanings and values held by different communities.

How to apply

Before designing interpretive signage, educational materials, or site interventions for a heritage location, conduct thorough stakeholder analysis to understand their varied perceptions and values.

Project actions

01When researching a historical object or place, consider who created it, who has controlled it, and who uses it now.
02Think about how different groups of people might see the same historical artifact or site.

Method & Evidence

AimHow do differing stakeholder perspectives and power dynamics influence the understanding and valuation of heritage sites?

MethodQualitative research, Stakeholder analysis

ProcedureThe study involved examining stakeholder definitions of heritage at two contested heritage sites, analyzing the power dynamics at play, and investigating the term 'cultural heritage' as understood by various groups, particularly Native American tribes.

ContextHeritage site management and interpretation

Variables

IVStakeholder group, Power dynamics

DVUnderstanding of heritage value, Interpretation of heritage sites

CVSpecific heritage site context

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

+Addresses the complex interplay of power and interpretation in heritage.
+Focuses on contested sites, revealing deeper conflicts.

Limitations

It can be challenging to access all relevant stakeholder groups, and their opinions might be influenced by current events or personal biases.

Reliability & validity

The study's validity is strengthened by its focus on real-world contested sites and diverse stakeholder groups. Reliability might be enhanced by using standardized interview protocols across all participants.

Think critically

How might a designer challenge or subvert dominant narratives when interpreting a heritage site, and what are the ethical considerations involved?

Design Principles

"Design interpretations of heritage should be inclusive, acknowledging diverse stakeholder values and the historical power dynamics that shape them."

Designers and researchers must recognize that the 'classic' or intended meaning of a heritage site can be contested and may not align with the lived experiences or values of all stakeholders. Understanding these power dynamics is crucial for inclusive and sensitive design interventions or interpretations.

What This Means for Your Design

How we think about old places isn't just about how they look or what happened there a long time ago. It's also about who has the power to decide what's important and whose stories get told.

How to use in your project

1.Use this research to justify the importance of stakeholder consultation in your design process, especially when dealing with cultural or historical elements.

Add to My Project

Quick Cite

Paragraph starter

This research highlights that the interpretation and perceived value of heritage sites are not solely determined by objective historical or aesthetic qualities but are significantly shaped by the power dynamics and diverse cultural perspectives of various stakeholders. This underscores the necessity for design projects involving heritage to engage deeply with a range of user groups to ensure inclusive and contextually relevant outcomes.

Source

International Journal of Heritage Studies

“‘I just don’t ever use that word’: investigating stakeholders’ understanding of heritage”

journal · 2017

View source

Questions About This Research

What does the research say about heritage site interpretation is shaped by power dynamics, not just aesthetics?: When designing for heritage sites, move beyond a singular, authoritative interpretation and actively engage with the multiplicity of meanings and values held by different communities. Evidence: International Journal of Heritage Studies (2017).
Why does "Heritage site interpretation is shaped by power dynamics, not just aesthetics" matter for design?: Designers and researchers must recognize that the 'classic' or intended meaning of a heritage site can be contested and may not align with the lived experiences or values of all stakeholders. Understanding these power dynamics is crucial for inclusive and sensitive design interventions or interpretations.
How can designers apply this research?: When designing for heritage sites, move beyond a singular, authoritative interpretation and actively engage with the multiplicity of meanings and values held by different communities.
What were the main findings?: Official discourse often frames Native American heritage sites through an archaeological lens, aligning with settler colonial ideologies.. This framing can obscure connections to contemporary peoples and erase histories of colonialism and dispossession.. Diverse constituencies hold conflicting and congruent views on the value of contested heritage sites.. The term 'cultural heritage' itself is understood differently by various groups, especially Native Americans.
What research method was used?: Qualitative research, Stakeholder analysis.
How strong is the evidence?: Evidence strength is rated Strong effect, based on a 2017 journal from International Journal of Heritage Studies.
What should I do differently in my next project?: Before designing interpretive signage, educational materials, or site interventions for a heritage location, conduct thorough stakeholder analysis to understand their varied perceptions and values.
What are the limitations?: The study focused on specific contested sites in the US Midwest, and findings may not be universally generalizable to all heritage contexts.