This paper presents the main findings of a PhD research examining the case study of post-world War II schools built in the city of Larnaka, Cyprus, between 1945 and 1963, through a value-based approach. Modern architectural heritage in Cyprus, which developed during politically turbulent periods, became entangled with processes of colonialism, nationalism, and conflict. As such, it constitutes a complex, contested heritage. Mobilising such heritage for sustainable development is challenging. However, this paper argues that new approaches in the heritage field related to heritage values, participation, and sustainability create opportunities for addressing complex histories in conflict-affected contexts.