Progressive Preservation

Progressive Preservation is a contemporary approach to heritage conservation that integrates preservation, community engagement, and design innovation. The term is most closely associated with the work of the Landmark Columbus Foundation (LCF) in Columbus, Indiana, which has developed programs to care for, celebrate, and advance the city's cultural heritage of architecture, landscapes, and public art.

Progressive Preservation differs from traditional historic preservation practices by emphasizing adaptive reuse, community participation, and integrating new design into historic contexts. It positions preservation as a proactive, future‑oriented practice that sustains cultural resources while enabling communities to thrive.