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landscape architecture

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WG1: Archival Management

Mission

WG1 works to strengthen the management and preservation of Landscape Architecture (LA) archives across Europe.​ Our goal is to promote archival standards and build strong collaborations between archivists, researchers and landscape architecture professionals.

We focus especially on regions where records are at risk and archival infrastructures are still developing. WG1 promotes post-custodial archival methods and supports professionals in gaining essential skills – including appraisal, acquisition, classification, and description – through manuals, visits, training sessions, and knowledge exchange.

 

Key Activities

 
1. Mapping Existing Archives

Identifying and documenting landscape architecture archives and collections in collaboration with COST members.

  • Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) to assess archives by age, condition, type, and accessibility.
  • Workshops to analyse findings and build a cartographic database.
 
2. Identifying Innovative Archival Models

Exploring and sharing effective archival practices to strengthen expertise and improve access to archives.

  • Online workshops to review and compare current approaches.
  • STSMs, study visits, and masterclasses to exchange knowledge and replicate successful models.
 
3. Creating a Manual of Best Practices 

Developing a comprehensive guide for managing both analogue and digital LA records – from care and storage to long-term preservation.

  • Workshops for knowledge exchange.
  • STSM to compile the manual.
 
4. Creating a Manual for Donors

Designing a practical guide to help LA professionals and associations organise and donate their materials to archives.

  • Workshops to gather insights and experiences.
  • STSM to produce the donor handbook.
 
5. Digital Technologies & Archival Challenges 

Building capacity in managing digital records – such as CAD files, GIS data, BIM models, and 3D representations – and advancing digitisation and digital humanities standards.

  • One dedicated training school.
To WG2