In the heart of China’s preservation policies lies a conundrum: how to transform historic buildings into engaging museums without losing their cultural essence. A recent study published in the *Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering* (Asian Architecture and Building Engineering Journal) by Keran Lan of Silpakorn University sheds light on this challenge, offering a roadmap for sustainable development strategies that could reshape the future of historic building museumization.
Lan’s research focuses on the “museumized” Hakka historic buildings in Meizhou, where many structures classified as “immovable cultural relics” are repurposed as museums. However, these efforts often fall short of fostering meaningful cultural engagement. “The current approach prioritizes physical conservation over dynamic cultural interaction, leading to a decline in visitor numbers and a disconnect with heritage,” Lan explains.
To bridge this gap, Lan analyzed user-generated content (UGC) about these historic buildings, employing Text Analysis, Importance-Performance Analysis, and Quality Function Deployment. This innovative approach revealed that while the buildings boast strong regional cultural characteristics and superb architectural craftsmanship, their museum exhibition formats are monotonous, and tourism services and transportation infrastructure need significant improvement.
The study’s findings highlight the need for a shift in strategy. “By promoting traditional regional culture, integrating dispersed historic building tourism resources, and creating personalized historic building tourism experiences, we can achieve sustainable development,” Lan asserts.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are substantial. As historic buildings are adapted for museum use, there is a growing need for sustainable energy solutions to power these sites efficiently. This research underscores the importance of integrating renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies in the preservation and museumization process, opening up new avenues for the energy sector to contribute to cultural heritage preservation.
Moreover, the study provides a model for other regions grappling with similar challenges. By leveraging UGC and employing advanced analytical techniques, cultural heritage sites can be transformed into vibrant, engaging museums that attract visitors and foster a deeper appreciation for history and culture.
Lan’s work not only offers a blueprint for sustainable development strategies but also underscores the importance of community engagement and personalized experiences in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this research could pave the way for innovative solutions that harmonize cultural preservation with sustainable development.