Historic Preservation

BSA's Historic Preservation Architects faithfully reconstructed the 1920 ice cream parlor on Bartell Pritchard Square for Ample Hills Creamery

Protecting History, Building the Future

Building Studio Architects is dedicated to protecting architectural heritage in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

Our team brings decades of experience in historic preservation architecture, from detailed restorations to adaptive reuse. Partner Michael Goldblum, a Commissioner at the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission and a LEED-certified architect, has consulted on numerous historic preservation efforts and led the design for award-winning adaptive reuse projects in the region. Partner John Field brings unparalleled practical expertise in navigating agency applications and integrating sustainable practices. We handle every detail to ensure your historic building stands strong for generations.

Some of the Companies We’re honored to work with:

Historic Preservation Specializations

  • The] Landmark building in Brooklyn was originally a candy factory, BSA renovated it for La Petite Colline an early childhood education center

    Adaptive Reuse

    Old buildings often outlast the purpose for which they were originally built. We can find new uses for historic buildings that take advantage of their unique qualities to enhance their utility today and into the future.

  • Bronx's Fieldston & Riverdale homes, we are proud of creating designs that enhance the significance of the neighborhoods while contributing to their historic significance.

    Residential Restoration

    Architectural detail, charm and authenticity are prized in historic homes. We preserve and enhance these original characteristics while reimagining them to suit twenty first century family needs and aspirations.

  • Foundry Square, a beautiful brick factory in Connecticut restored with the Hurley Group

    Commercial Preservation

    For tenants and customers, unique spaces with historical interest often enhance a business. By upgrading historic commercial spaces to meet contemporary needs, we both reduce construction costs and provide improved user experience.

The Washington Building, built in 1899, repurposed from an office building with a beer garden to a market-rate residential rental, awarded the New Haven Preservation Society Award in 2020.

Historic Building Renovation and Restoration Services

Navigating the complexities of historic preservation can be daunting—from strict regulatory approvals to maintaining architectural integrity while upgrading spaces and systems. Building Studio Architects simplifies this process with expert solutions that address these challenges head-on. Our tailored services ensure your historic building is thoughtfully preserved, modernized, and fully compliant, from the initial planning stage to project completion.

Permitting & Regulatory Approvals

With extensive experience with regulatory groups, we expertly navigate the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission and similar administrative processes, ensuring compliance.

Materials Analysis & Conservation

Conduct detailed materials analysis to guide restoration efforts, preserving architectural details in renovations. Our approach ensures the longevity and integrity of historic elements while maintaining the building’s character.

Construction Administration

Onsite expert consulting, detailed reviews of product submittals, and flexibility in finding creative solutions to field problems all ensure the historically appropriate outcome.

Initial Project Scoping & Consulting

Assess project feasibility from both regulatory and practical perspectives, providing expert guidance to inform your approach and ensure successful planning.

Community Advocacy & Stakeholder Consulting

Engage with community members, preservation groups, and other stakeholders to build support for preservation projects, advocating for designs that benefit both the historic building & the community.

Facade Restoration

Revitalize historic facades by repairing and preserving architectural features and specialty finishes procured from expert artisans. Facade repair and safety compliance go hand in hand with responsible building conservation.

Schematic Design

Develop thoughtful plans that address client needs within a historic preservation context, respecting the building’s history while accommodating modern requirements.

Modern Systems Integration

Introduce sustainable upgrades for older buildings, like energy-efficient HVAC systems, lighting, and insulation. Our approach seamlessly integrates modern technology while preserving aesthetics and historical significance.

  • "Great job team!"

    The Building Studio and Michael Goldblum have been incredible with their designs as well as problem solving for the many projects that we have done together. Great job team!

    - Tom Picagli, The Hurley Group

Explore Our Historic Preservation Projects

Restoration of the 19-story Martinique Hotel’s Beaux-Arts façade, featuring a new marquee and fan-arch windows, enhancing its historic charm at 32nd Street and Broadway

Preserve History with a Trusted Team of Historic Preservation Architects

When it comes to the delicate, nuanced process of restoring old buildings and finding new uses for them, experience counts. Building Studio Architects, with over 30 years of experience in preserving historic buildings affords our clients the resources and expertise needed to ensure the right outcomes for their projects.

Contact us today to learn how our expertise can make your historic preservation project a success.