CREJ

38 / BUILDING DIALOGUE / December 2018 ELEMENTS Historic Renovations Key Factors for Successful Historic Renovation Projects M odern architecture and construction have evolved in the past 15 to 20 years to the point that buildings all across the world are becoming art forms and models of sustainability. Factors such as employee morale and productivity, energy efficien- cy and technology are driving de- sign and infrastructure decisions throughout the architecture/engi- neering/construction industry. While new building construc- tion more often than not brings extreme intrigue, there still is an intense nostalgia for historic ren- ovation projects. For many de- velopers, hospitality venues and community organizations, restor- ing a cherished part of history and maintaining their roots are critical to their end-users and the long- term visions they have to satisfy them. How do you know if performing a historic renovation is the right decision? Upgrading an existing building that (in most cases) was originally constructed 75-plus years ago has to be approached methodically, especially if the structure is a landmark venue, nationally regis- tered or had been left vacant and damaged. Below are five key steps to take when modernizing and restoring the brilliance of a treasured past. 1. Focus on the goals. Before the project starts, it’s import- ant to embrace the owner’s goals during the build and after completion; this requires an understanding of the cultural, environmental and economic benefits of a his- toric renovation versus starting over and creating a new building. Once the owner’s goals are established, you’ll need to create a plan to ensure you are able to safely and successfully meet them. Primary questions we ask our clients to help uncover its goals include: • Is it important to preserve all original aspects of the building? • Will historical funding sources be pursued and uti- lized? • Is the structure on any historical registries and what Mike Cooper, LEED AP Senior Project Manager, The Weitz Co. Originally built approximately 90 years ago around 1930, Warren Library on the campus of PalmBeachAtlantic Uni- versity had its signature rotunda renovated by TheWeitz Co. at the same it expanded the building with an adjoining wing. In addition to reinforcing the existing masonry walls and reshoring the foundations, the existing roof of the rotunda was removed and replaced prior to completing the restoration of the elegant, three-story reading room. In November 2012, The Weitz Co. completed the conversion of three distinctly separate spaces into a revolutionary lounge inside The Breakers (a historic des- tination resort in Palm Beach, Florida). Interior walls were removed, a display kitchen was built where no kitchen previously existed and new mechanical, electrical and plumbing was installed to create HMF, which was named in honor of Henry Morrison Flagler who founded The Breakers.