Damaged or altered historic fabric can be returned toward an earlier appearance. Restoration is the process of repairing and reconstructing a building, object, or artwork so that it closely resembles a documented previous state.

Decisions about which period to restore to, how much original material to retain, and whether to make new work distinguishable are guided by professional codes and sometimes heated debate. Restoration differs from pure conservation, which prioritizes stabilizing existing material without necessarily recovering a lost appearance.

Major restorations have rescued landmarks from ruin and also erased later historical layers some regard as significant. Documentation before, during, and after the work is essential. The practice sits at the intersection of craft skill, historical knowledge, and cultural values about authenticity.

• Returning a historic object or building to an earlier state
• Involves repair and often reconstruction
• Guided by documentation and professional standards
• Distinct from minimal conservation approaches