The excitement and mystery of connecting to our past through a historic structure can quickly deteriorate into frustration born from delays and increased costs if not navigated appropriately. The realization of both federal and state tax credits can make or break a venture.

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Resonanting with the Past

There is a monumental difference between being a fan of architecture and that of being an architectural historian. While both make for great conversation at a cocktail party, the later is essential in conducting an Architectural Investigation. We identify and engage the most qualified historians, conservators, and architects from the outset of a project and craft a focused and purposeful investigative framework that supports the vision. It takes considerable coordination early in the design phase to identify, retain, and preserve those elements that contribute to the historic fabric of a property. The costs and timing associated with reconnaissance, surface mapping, non-destructive testing, destructive testing, and potentially laboratory analysis need to be factored into the schedule and financials.

Historic preservation by itself, however, is typically not the end goal. Whether it is the general public visiting a museum, a tenant occupying an apartment, or a restaurantuer serving the day's special, the historic preservation effort must support a user.

Fortunately, the additional investment needed to reposition a historic building can be offset by successfully traversing the myriad of regulations promulgated by the Department of Interior. Tax credits can amount to millions of dollars on a single project but they can also be vanquished if the federal and state regulations are violated.