Historic Preservation

Historic Preservation is the restoration and rehabilitation of an older, yet viable building, structure or community. Usually the property would have some intrinsic or historical value. Some projects are restored to their original state and preserved as museums of the past. Others are rebuilt to serve as an adaptive re-use, whereby the structure and style are preserved, while the function changes to a modern use.

Pea Green Schoolhouse Complete restoration of a turn of the century schoolhouse - located at the corner of Colorado 348 & Banner Road in Montrose County, Colorado.

Adaptive Re-use of Historic Home as Office Building

Old buildings which have intrinsic value should be saved so that we maintain linkages with our past. They become a thread of living history. Traditional reasons for preservation decisions are that the property was the site of an historic event, the home of an historic person, and or as representative of a distinctive historical style. However, there are a multitude of other reasons. The property may have been a family heirloom. It may be in a strategic location. The mechanical or electrical system may be outdated, yet the structure is sound and serviceable. Often buildings placed on either the National or Colorado Historic Register may qualify for certain tax credits if restored under specific guidelines. The Colorado Historic Society provides grants for preserving buildings that are on the register.

Historic preservation usually starts with research into the building’s past, with the intent of determining its historic status. If thought to be eligible for registration, the application process can begin. Quite a bit of documentation and form preparation is required. If successful, and the property is placed on the register, grant applications can be processed. Rehabilitation financing may also be pursued regardless of the buildings historic status.

Foundation Reconstruction Often Necessary

Generally a restoration project begins by stripping the interior back to its original framing system. Exterior finishes should be peeled back to the original surface which may have been siding, brickwork, stucco, stonework or another material. If the materials are serviceable the preferred option is to restore them. If not, duplicating the style, texture and color of the material is advised. Windows and doors are either restored or replaced. Roofs generally have to be replaced, usually in the style and character of the original.

Historic Grant Gives New Life to Cherished Structure

Our firm guides our clients through the entire process starting with application procedures and grant wiring assistance. Plans and specifications are done for the restoration. We also monitor the construction and process grant compliance paperwork.

Blue Sage Center for the Arts

Home Tour - Paonia, Colorado
Tour which describes style of homes in the neighborhood.