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Historic Building Preservation: Do's and Don'ts

Feb 16, 2024

As stewards of our architectural heritage, commercial construction companies specializing in historic building preservation play a vital role in ensuring that these treasures of the past continue to enrich our communities for generations to come. However, navigating the complexities of historic preservation requires a delicate balance between honoring the past and meeting the present needs. Here are five essential "Do's" and "Don'ts" for historic building projects to guide you on this journey.



The Do's


Research and Understand the Building's History

Every historic building has a story to tell, and understanding its history is paramount to successful preservation. Before embarking on any project, take the time to research the building's architectural style, original materials, and historical significance. By uncovering the building's past, you gain invaluable insights that will inform your preservation efforts and ensure that your work respects its unique heritage.


Engage with Preservation Experts 

Historic preservation is a multidisciplinary endeavor that requires expertise in architecture, history, conservation, and construction. Collaborate with preservation architects, historians, and consultants specializing in historic buildings. Their knowledge and experience will help you navigate preservation regulations, address technical challenges, and make informed decisions that balance preservation goals with modern requirements.


Document and Preserve Original Features 

Historic buildings are repositories of craftsmanship and architectural detail, each element bearing witness to the past. When undertaking a preservation project, prioritize documenting and preserving original features and materials. Whether it's intricate woodwork, ornate plaster moldings, or handcrafted masonry, these historic elements contribute to the building's character, and the team should conserve them whenever possible.


Adapt with Sensitivity

While historic buildings provide a link to the past, they must also meet the needs of contemporary users. When making updates or additions to a historic structure, approach the design process with sensitivity and respect for the original fabric. Seek inspiration from the building's historic character and use materials, colors, and techniques harmonizing with its architectural style. By blending the old with the new, you can create spaces that honor the past while serving the needs of the present.


Regular Maintenance and Monitoring

Preservation is an ongoing process that requires proactive care and attention. Implement a regular maintenance schedule to monitor the condition of the building and address any issues before they escalate. Regular inspections, cleaning, and repair work can help prevent deterioration and prolong the lifespan of historic materials. Investing in proactive maintenance safeguards the building's integrity and demonstrates your commitment to its long-term preservation.

The Don'ts


Ignore Preservation Regulations 

Historic preservation is governed by a complex web of regulations and guidelines designed to protect our architectural heritage. Ignoring or circumventing these regulations can have severe legal and ethical consequences. Before undertaking any work on a historic building, familiarize yourself with local, state, and national preservation laws and ensure your project complies with all applicable regulations.


Over-Modify or Alter Original Features 

One of the cardinal sins of historic preservation is the over-modification or alteration of original features. Resist the temptation to impose modern design aesthetics or amenities that detract from the building's historic character. Instead, embrace the unique quirks and imperfections that give historic buildings their charm and authenticity.


Use Inappropriate Materials or Techniques 

Not all materials and techniques are created equal in historic preservation projects. Avoid using modern materials or construction techniques that can irreversibly harm the building's fabric or alter its appearance. Instead, opt for traditional materials and methods compatible with the original construction and craftsmanship.


Prioritize Cost over Quality 

In historic preservation, quality should always take precedence over cost. Cutting corners or sacrificing craftsmanship to save money can compromise the integrity of the building and undermine its long-term conservation. Instead, invest in high-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship that will stand the test of time and ensure the continued beauty and integrity of the building.


Lack of Community Engagement

Historic buildings are more than just architectural landmarks; they are also cherished community assets. Failing to engage with the local community and stakeholders throughout the preservation process can lead to resentment, mistrust, and opposition. Involve the community in decision-making processes, seek their input and feedback, and communicate openly and transparently about your preservation efforts. By fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the building, you can ensure its continued preservation for future generations.

Work With Wright Building Systems

Historic building preservation is a labor of love that requires careful planning, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep respect for the past. By following these five essential do's and don'ts, commercial construction companies can ensure that their historic building projects are successful from a technical standpoint and make enriching and meaningful contributions to our shared cultural heritage. Together, we can preserve the past for the enjoyment and inspiration of future generations.


Wright Building Services understands that a successful commercial construction project isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's about careful planning, proactive risk management, and a commitment to excellence. By addressing financial, design, scheduling, and compliance risks, our team ensures that we execute each project seamlessly, meeting client expectations and delivering outstanding results.


Get in touch with us today if you are looking to preserve your historic property!

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10 Apr, 2024
How long has it been since you refreshed your office space? Choosing to rebuild entirely or renovate what you already have is a critical decision, and while rebuilding can yield excellent results, renovations may be more cost-effective and timely. We've helped business owners across the St. Louis region renovate their spaces and improve productivity. Let's discuss some tips that will help propel your office renovations and give your team the space they deserve. Assessing Your Needs and Setting Goals Before diving into the renovation process, it is essential to step back and evaluate your current workspace. Identify pain points, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. Are there bottlenecks in workflow? Is the layout conducive to collaboration and productivity? By pinpointing these issues, you can establish clear renovation objectives and desired outcomes. Business owners should consider budget constraints and timelines to ensure the team has realistic expectations from the outset. Envisioning Your Ideal Workspace With goals in mind, it's time to unleash your creativity and envision the future of your workspace. Draw inspiration from various sources such as design magazines, websites, and competitor spaces. Engage with your employees to understand their preferences and needs. What elements would enhance their work experience? Creating a mood board or vision board can crystallize your ideas and visualize the desired aesthetic and functionality. Finding the Right Contractor Choosing the right contractor is a pivotal step in the renovation process—research and vet potential candidates with experience in commercial office renovations. Ask for referrals and view past projects to assess quality and reliability. Obtain multiple quotes and compare services, timelines, and pricing to make an informed decision. Remember, communication is key—select a contractor who listens to your vision and collaborates effectively. Collaborating with Your Contractor Once you've chosen a contractor, establish open lines of communication and set clear expectations. Communicate your vision, goals, and budget constraints. Collaborate on establishing a timeline and project milestones to track progress effectively. Throughout the renovation, maintain regular communication to promptly address any concerns or changes. A collaborative partnership between you and your contractor is essential for a successful outcome.

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The world of commercial construction is full of moving parts (figuratively and literally!). In large projects, multiple stakeholders collaborate to bring complex projects to fruition, and the potential for disputes loom. From differing interpretations of contract terms to unexpected project challenges, disputes can significantly impact timelines, budgets, and overall project success. Let's discuss invaluable tips for effective dispute resolution and prevention in the commercial construction industry to ensure a smoother construction process. Clear Contractual Agreements One of the fundamental pillars of successful commercial construction projects is the establishment of clear and comprehensive contractual agreements. Contracts should serve as a roadmap, clearly defining the scope of work, project timelines, payment schedules, and the responsibilities of each party involved. Ambiguities and vague language in contracts often become breeding grounds for disputes. By investing time in crafting precise and detailed contracts, construction companies can significantly reduce the risk of misunderstandings and disagreements down the line. Effective Communication Effective communication is the lifeblood of any successful construction project. Establishing open and transparent communication channels among all stakeholders is paramount. Regular project updates, discussions about concerns, and encouraging all parties to voice their opinions contribute to a collaborative environment. Addressing issues promptly and fostering a culture of clear communication helps prevent minor misunderstandings from snowballing into more significant disputes that can threaten the project's success. 
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