Breathing new life into industrial heritage: the digital era's influence on transforming Safawi cinema into a historical museum

PurposeThis paper aims to identify and evaluate the industrial heritage of the Safawi region, which has suffered from neglect and government dispossession. It proposes strategies for documenting and repurposing the Al-Safawi cinema, advocating for its transformation into a historical museum. Repurposing culturally significant structures as museums offers opportunities to address challenges, preserve heritage, promote sustainable urban development, improve local quality of life, and attract tourists.Design/methodology/approachEmploying an inductive approach, this research uses qualitative methods, including detailed descriptive analysis, along with contemporary digital documentation tools such as RTC360 Laser Scanning, Digi Cad 3D, Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD, and Photoshop.FindingsThe study demonstrates that converting heritage buildings into museums requires minimal alterations to maintain authenticity and historical integrity. These findings provide valuable insights into architectural considerations that inform decision-making processes for museum projects, contributing to discussions on museum standards, practices, and adaptive reuse within the Jordanian context.Originality/valueThis study stands out for its use of advanced digital tools within the Jordanian context, representing a significant advancement in digital documentation practices. Few studies have explored the Safawi area and its heritage, making this research particularly innovative. By advocating for minimal alterations to preserve authenticity, it sets a valuable precedent for museum projects in the country, enhancing efforts in heritage conservation and cultural enrichment. This initiative highlights the evolving landscape of digital engagement in Jordan and its potential implications for cultural heritage management.