The aim of the research is to map the operation of noble households from the 18th to the 20th century, with a focus on the residences of the Metternich family in both Bohemia and abroad. Our intention is to gain insights into how the daily running of a noble residence was organized, how daily and seasonal cleaning was carried out, what means were used for it, how the climate was maintained, and how valuable furnishings were cared for. At the same time, we are interested in how the inventory of interior furnishings was recorded, how the moving of furniture took place, and also how the care of furnishings was reflected in the mentioned noble representation. An integral part of this research is also the personnel aspect of the operation, that is, who managed the operation, what the hierarchy of the service staff was, and who specifically from the noble family ran it. These are questions that we also deal with as modern managers of castles, chateaux, and monasteries. An important part of the research is its applicability in current practice aimed at the economically and ecologically efficient operation of heritage sites. 

The sources for this research are: archival material of both official and personal nature, diary entries, correspondence, contemporary manuals, historical iconography, photographs, and planning documentation. However, the most important sources are the historical houses themselves, preserved artisan elements, and above all the preserved furniture collection (furniture, paintings, porcelain, glass, textiles, and more).

We continuously present and interpret the research results to both professional and general audiences in a way that makes the findings useful and inspiring for the everyday sustainable management of any household.