Architectural Survey and Documentation: Heritage Architecture performs an Existing Conditions Survey of the existing historic structures on the site to identify the developmental history of the building and uncover the nature of the original materials and finishes used throughout the site development. We identify the form and detailing of architectural materials and features that define the historic character of the building and present measured drawings and photographs that document the findings. Once key features have been identified and documented, we strive to retain and preserve them so that the historical integrity and authenticity of the building is maintained.

Through undertaking Phase I and Phase II archaeological surveys of the historic property, we identify the original and subsequent historic activities that took place within the property. By combining the results of the archaeological surveys with existing historic documentation and relevant archival materials, we can provide an interpretation of the developmental history of the property.

We assess potential Adaptive Reuse applications for the historical site based on the building’s historic uses, current community needs, zoning considerations, and the feasibility of upgrading the building to meet modern building code requirements while maintaining the historical integrity of the building. We implement health and safety upgrades such as the abatement of toxic materials and stairway, elevator and fire suppression system upgrades. In addition, we assess accessibility and strive to meet ADA access requirements with the least impact on the character-defining features of the building and property. Existing historic features that inherently conserve energy, such as passive solar design, landscaping features and thermal insulation are identified and maintained or restored. Additional energy conservation measures are sensitively retrofitted where needed.

Heritage Architecture provides design services for missing historical features. Where historic documentation reveals the original design, we can restore missing elements according to the original design. Where damage to a building element is beyond repair, we sensitively replace these elements while striving to maintain the historic authenticity of the site. Necessary additions or alterations are carried out on non character-defining elevations of the building and are constructed to be clearly differentiated from the original historic building while remaining compatible with the overall design.

Heritage Architecture adheres to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation in our Historic Preservation work. Historic renovations are regulated by the State and Federal government. We can provide assistance with all stages of applications and approval processing.