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To Restore Or Not
To Restore? That Is
the Question
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Business New Haven
4/19/1999
By: Priscilla Searles
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Frederick N. Vogt of Noyes Vogt Architects in Guilford is more than a bit familiar with the issues companies face when considering the purchase of an historic building - restoration is one of the areas his firm specializes in. Vogt is quick to point out that, if a company doesn't become discouraged by the unique problems faced in restoration, the rewards can be worth the effort for both the company and the community.
What are some of the first issues a company should examine when considering the purchase of an historic building?
Check the structural integrity of the building, the ease of accessibility - coming into the building and carrying through inside, the flexibility of the layout or rooms so it can be adjusted for the owner's use. More often than not, historic buildings aren't designed for accessibility. They have to comply with the American with Disabilities Act which requires accessibility for both employees and the public. For business use, most historic buildings have multiple floors and are 3,000 square feet or more. An elevator might be necessary and, in some cases, be difficult to install.
Can companies make the decision to purchase an historic structure without outside help?
Dealing with these problems requires expertise; companies need to have experts working with them. Those who don't could be in for some surprises. There are other code updating issues, such as life safety, electrical upgrade and proper exits. It is up to the purchaser to find out these things. No company should rely on the real estate agent alone. They need to do their homework, ask questions, check the law.
What other issues need to be dealt with?
Familiarity with the U.S. Dept. of the Interior's standards for rehabilitation is needed, especially if the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places or is located in an historic district. If a company is going to take advantage of a tax credit or any federal funds, restoration of the buildings is expected to meet the standards for renovation and rehabilitation put out by the National Park Service.
I've just purchased a building for office use. Now what?
Find people and firms that specialize in restoration work. In addition to an architectural firm, you'll need tradesmen who are skilled in restoration, such as masons and people who do woodworking. And by all means have an appreciation for restoring instead of replacing. It's part of our firm's job to make sure these resources are available to the customer. And in an historical site we supply written and photograph materials. Companies can do a little research on their own by checking with the local historical society and preservation society for old pictures and information concerning the site. It's wonderful to know the history of the building - what it was used for and what it looked like 60 or 70 years ago.
What are some of the positives in the restoration of an historic building?
One consideration in restoring an historic building is the possibility the company might be eligible for a federal tax credit. And having your business in an historical structure can be a real image-builder for your company. Another plus: The restoration of an historic site contributes to the economic growth of your community, it helps preserve the city's fabric - that which gives it an identity. Most cities seem to be more identified by the historical buildings rather than the newer ones. There is a sense of pride in preserving the city's heritage.
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