Rehabilitation

Li · Saltzman Architects is skilled at developing practical solutions for the rehabilitation of historic buildings, integrating preservation goals with programmatic requirements, code compliance, and modern mechanical/electrical/plumbing and fire protection systems. With extensive knowledge of existing building types and current building standards, LSA brings an analytic and creative approach to rehabilitation projects. Drawing upon its decades of design and construction experience, LSA works with project teams to develop projects that balance the preservation of historic spatial configurations, features, materials and construction techniques with today’s requirements. LSA has LEED accredited professionals on staff and incorporates sustainability practices in its designs. Representative rehabilitation projects, from initial evaluation through construction, include the renovation of 20,000 square feet of theater/studio space for Gibney Dance in the individually landmarked Marble Palace in lower Manhattan; the renovation of a Beaux Arts style public library in Harlem; and a mid-century public library in Brooklyn. LSA’s familiarity with rehabilitation includes:

  • Assessing and recognizing the physical record of a site’s time, place and use

  • Understanding a property’s narrative history of change

  • Preserving character-defining features, construction techniques and craftsmanship

  • Specifying non-destructive testing and probes to reveal concealed conditions and gentlest-effective methods for cleaning

  • Repairing deteriorated features and/or replacing in-kind historic features that are damaged to a point precluding repair

  • Balancing respect for the historic property with contemporary programmatic and code requirements where new additions, alterations and/or new construction are proposed

  • Integrating sustainability and preservation goals

  • Knowledge of The Secretary of the Interiors’ Standards and Guidelines for Rehabilitation and the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission’s Rules and Guidelines

 

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