How to Alter a Historical Structure

It is easy to overlook how much architecture impacts the culture of a place. Every day, you may see the same buildings and think little of it. Most only think about the buildings once they are gone. Preserving a historic structure can help preserve culture and identity with that place. Here are some approaches to reworking and improving historical structures.

Preserve Structure

Preservation involves sustaining the integrity of the structure. Normally, craftsmen will use the same materials that built the original. This process involves a lot of maintenance and repair, rather than any new designs or recreations of the building.

Rehab Structure

To rehab a structure is a lot more involved than preservation. This will prepare the building for any future habitation and will still meet all the historical building standards. Most cities have strict zoning laws that prevent people from changing historical buildings. When you have a historical structure, you have to design, build, repair and restore the existing features. While you may be able to add on to the building, you have to differentiate those structures from the original historical structure.

Reconstruct Structure

The biggest project in terms of a historical structure alteration is the reconstruction. This project involves recreating the lost or damaged structure entirely. This job involves creating a replica of a structure that is gone. Reconstruction takes the longest time and is the most difficult process. Professionals have to be able to create the most precise replicas. Any physical evidence or any documented evidence can be used to help design the replacement structures.

If you have a historical building that you want to alter, there are professionals who understand how to design, build and reconstruct historical structures. Older buildings can give a town more charm, it can reflect a place’s past and may help revive culture within a place. When working with historical buildings, you either preserve, rehab or reconstruct the structure.