Publications
Experiencing accessibility of historical heritage places with individuals living with visible and invisible disabilities
A significant barrier to heritage access for individuals with disabilities persists despite their strong interest. This study, involving 21 adults with visible (e.g., motor) and invisible (e.g., autism) disabilities, revealed diverse obstacles—physical, social, and sensory—that limit participation in historic sites like Old Québec's Séminaire de Québec and Petit-Champlain. While participants employed adaptive strategies, many struggled to engage fully in social or leisure activities, highlighting a disconnect between heritage preservation and inclusive design. The findings underscore the need for accessibility solutions that balance authenticity with equitable access, ensuring heritage remains meaningful and available to all.
Preserving the Past, Ensuring the Future: The Adaptive Reuse of the Maillou House for Sustainable Tourism in Old Québec
Adaptive reuse of heritage buildings, such as the Maillou House in Old Québec, offers a sustainable model for balancing tourism growth and preservation in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The study demonstrates that repurposing underutilized historic structures—like this 18th-century military site—can integrate cultural value with modern visitor engagement without displacing residents or compromising architectural integrity. By applying heritage conservation principles, the research proposes a framework for revitalizing central touristic areas while mitigating the pressures of increased visitation, ensuring long-term sustainability for both the site and its surroundings.
Participatory management of an urban world heritage site
A case study of the Historic District of Old Québec reveals that participatory management, even in a long-standing UNESCO World Heritage Site (20 years), faces significant challenges while offering valuable insights for broader application. The research highlights key elements and contextual factors critical to successful community-based heritage initiatives. Unlike prescriptive 'best practices,' this study provides a nuanced example of participatory management, questioning its relevance in less experienced contexts without prior local involvement. It introduces a conceptual framework and methodological approach for studying such cases, emphasizing the importance of context-specific analysis over generalized recommendations.
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