top of page
Historic Preservation
Historic preservation is the disciplined practice of extending a building’s life while protecting its character. This category offers practical insights on repair-first strategies, in-kind craftsmanship, modern system integration, and thoughtful adaptive reuse — all shaped by real field experience. It’s preservation done with respect, precision, and long-term stewardship.
Measuring Preservation Success Beyond Before-and-After Photos
True preservation success isn’t flashy. It’s measured in restraint, longevity, and how little the building had to give up to move forward.
Jenna Chandler
Jan 221 min read
Why Collaboration Matters More in Historic Preservation
Historic preservation demands more than expertise—it requires trust, communication, and shared restraint across the entire team.
Jenna Chandler
Jan 212 min read
The Contractor’s Role in the Preservation Review Process
Preservation reviews work best when contractors are involved early. Here’s why constructibility insight matters long before construction begins.
Jenna Chandler
Jan 212 min read
The Hidden Labor of Preservation: Why Skilled Craftsmen Are Irreplaceable
Preservation succeeds or fails by the hands that perform it. Skilled craftspeople aren’t optional — they’re the backbone of historic integrity.
Jenna Chandler
Dec 22, 20252 min read
Modern Systems in Historic Shells: Making New Work Invisible
Modern systems don’t have to fight historic character. With thoughtful planning, they can disappear into the fabric of the building.
Jenna Chandler
Dec 15, 20252 min read
Why In-Kind Materials Matter in Historic Preservation
“In-kind” repairs preserve more than appearance — they protect a building’s long-term performance and historic integrity. Here’s why material matching is essential.
Jenna Chandler
Dec 8, 20252 min read
When Historic Buildings Speak: Reading Material Clues Before You Start
Every historic structure carries its own history — if you know how to read the clues. Here’s how early investigation prevents avoidable damage.
Jenna Chandler
Dec 1, 20253 min read
What Makes a GC Truly “Preservation-Ready”?
Not all contractors are prepared for historic work. Here’s what separates true preservation contractors from general builders who occasionally work on old buildings.
Jenna Chandler
Nov 24, 20252 min read
The Cost of Doing It Right: Why Preservation Is Cheaper Than Reconstruction
Preservation may look expensive on paper, but authentic repair almost always beats the cost of replacement — financially, historically, and environmentally.
Jenna Chandler
Nov 18, 20252 min read
Why the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards Matter — and Why We Use Them
The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards aren’t red tape — they’re the backbone of responsible historic preservation. Here’s why they exist and why we follow them.
Jenna Chandler
Nov 17, 20252 min read
Preserving the Past, Shaping What Comes Next: A Contractor’s Perspective on Historic Preservation in Pre-Construction
Historic preservation starts long before construction begins. In pre-construction, every decision—how we investigate, sequence, protect, and plan—determines how much original fabric can be preserved. Thoughtful pre-con work shapes the entire trajectory of a project and sets the foundation for responsible, respectful historic preservation.
Jenna Chandler
Nov 14, 20253 min read
bottom of page