Using a holistic approach when approaching work on your older building helps to insure that the repairs, reconstructions, or maintenance activities we perform are a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix. Our understanding of how the various building systems interact helps us to insure that the project we complete is not simply a band-aid solution but rather that the sequence of repairs we suggest insures that the work that is completed is protected from future damage from the underlying problem.
Preservation (maintaining what is existing) is the original green building solution. Many new products are being introduced as green building – we would argue that existing buildings are inherently green and have many sustainable features, such as, durable and repairable materials not found in modern construction. The embodied energy within an existing building is lost when we tear-down to create a new green building. The reuse/repair of buildings also creates a smaller carbon footprint than building a new green building. Many of the modern building solutions retro-fitted into older buildings have caused our older buildings to become less efficient by reversing these modern changes (using the traditional building features in the manner in which they were intended) we can help rethink the assumptions generally made about older buildings and their efficiency.
Restoration activities (recreating what has been lost through neglect, damage, or modernization) can also be a green activity by reusing materials that have been salvaged from buildings being demolished. Many of the visible features we use are salvaged materials from wide-board flooring with its original patina to the first growth White Oak used to create our reproduction window and door frames. Using these materials in our restoration projects helps to insure that the building materials have been kept out of the land-fill and are reused as the ultimate form of recycling.
Our approach using traditional building methods
together with, modern materials and current problem solving methods,
when appropriate. Remaining true to the architectural design and essence
of the home that was created at the time the home was built.
We have the ability to carry out your vision for your space. Working
with your architect or our own Design/Build system. We enjoy the exchange
of ideas to allow the best solution to a problem to be found and implemented.
Our homes are more than mere shelter, where and how we live reflects
who we are. Homes much like our personal lives change and evolve. Architecture
is the snapshot of place and time past and present. As good stewards
to our environment our duty is to establish, where needed, and retain
practices that will allow us to enjoy the heritage of those who have
come before us.
We believe that restoration of our vintage homes is a necessity if we
are to thrive as a nation. We celebrate the past it is our legacy to
the future. |
