John Canning & Co.'s Testimonials
We continue to work with some great owners, architects, engineers, contractors and other team member in our historic preservation, conservation and restoration projects. When everything comes together at the end of a project and everyone gets to see the historic building restoration complete, it reinforces why we do the architectural arts work we do.
Here we are taking the opportunity to share some of the comments we have received through the years.
"The crew was great! They understood the balance we needed to achieve between a noticeably cleaner appearance and one that remained true to the original color scheme and design. Their hard work produced fantastic results. We would love to work with John Canning & Co. on more projects in the future."
"Throughout the restoration, Canning diligently cleaned and repaired the statuary. They uncovered details on the statues previously unknown to USRC and skillfully documented each stage of the project. The quality of the company’s work has been so superb that numerous commuters, tourists, historic preservation agencies, and news outlets in the nation’s capital have responded with high praise. Due to the impressive work of John Canning & Co., the Roman Legionnaire statues stand brighter and bolder today "
"The results of John Canning Co.'s work in restoring are courtroom defies description. The cleaned and restored paintings are so vivid, the colors appear to leap from the paintings. As to the restoration of the courtroom itself, John Canning Co. did and incredible job. The woodwork is exquisite. The attention to detail in all aspects of the project is obvious."
"The restoration work completed by John and his team was of the highest caliber and resulted in a stunning room of impeccable historical accuracy. Previously it had been empty, underutilized, and detrimental to our interpretation plan. In addition, the museum saw an increase in visitation after the grand opening of the Mahogany Suite. This room is now an important asset when interpreting the life of Samuel Clemens and his family in late 19th-century Hartford for visitors and schoolchildren. The restoration of the Mahogany Suite has added to this asset immeasurably."
“They [Canning] discovered additional layers of decoration in some areas that expanded upon the recommendations of the previous consultants, and that work is what was undertaken.”
“Canning’s professionalism, cleanliness, efficiency, and organizational skills were superb. Their enthusiasm and their respect for working in a sacred building were evident at all times.”
“The firm’s knowledge of historic finishes, their attention to the minute detail of every feature, the consideration they give to all documentation of original features, from historic photographs to paint sampling, and their dedication to appropriate restoration are impressive.”
“Canning’s thorough knowledge of period decoration and methodology, as well as traditional materials, was a valuable contribution to the project team.”
"Most importantly, Mr. Canning or his staff were always available to answer questions and to respond to the concerns of the County relating to the project. Every elected official involved in this project has commented upon the professionalism, integrity, and enthusiasm John Canning Co. poured into this project. We could not be happier. I am certain anyone who would hire John Canning Co. would find the experience to be rewarding and satisfying."
“Their team of professionals were experienced in the use of traditional methods and materials as well as serving as advocates for the preservation of the historical and architectural integrity of Virginia’s Capitol.”
“It has been my pleasure to work with the John Canning Co. for over 15 years. Their talent and skill in execution is unique in the arena of historic restoration projects.”
“With all the beautiful, quality work, the manager will remember you most for finishing two months early, allowing him to rent out the room for spring events. The room is one of the [Cosmos] club’s biggest sources of revenue.”
“Your research into period appropriate means and methods for the original installation was instrumental in changing the specification to a non-destructive repair and restructuring of the ceilings.”
“Canning understands materials and specifications, especially traditional materials and techniques, and understands and appreciates the benefits of a truly collaborative effort in design excellence. [WV Capitol Dome]”
“I can’t thank you enough for your patience, expertise, and guidance. I cannot imagine the project without you and your team.”
“The work was, in every case, excellent. Whenever there was a question, a prompt and respectful response was always given. Any changes in the work were most graciously accepted.”
“Canning brought to light the variety and the inventiveness of past generations in architecture.”
“Canning has brought an outstanding common sense attitude of accomplishment to their work when many others are lost within myriad complex issues.”
“Canning’s craft and artistry take aspects of a design to absolute levels of refinement that bring new works to unexpected levels of delight. Visitors are amazed that such craft is still alive and well in our expedient world.”
“We have chosen to work with Canning almost exclusively on decorative conservation work for over twenty years in recognition of their overall abilities.”
“I have had the pleasure of working with artisans in many countries overseas. Canning truly ranks among the best in the world!”
“I’m writing to express our great satisfaction with the work you performed. The project involved both technical expertise and diplomacy on your part in working with the Church and its parishioners during construction.”
“During the interview, they were helpful and informative, and they presented us with a cost-effective way to salvage the original decorative scheme.”
“As a General Contractor on our project, Canning was presented with a number of very difficult, unforeseen challenges. Their diligence, ingenuity, and professionalism guided us through.”
“For those of us who have final responsibility for quality of work, your cooperative and thorough concern with both large and small details were very much appreciated.”
“Working much more efficiently than I thought possible, your team was able to complete the restoration of the entire corridor within the three weeks of access during the Senate recess. ”
“The discovery of the original colors and the way your crew approached this project shows the professionalism of John Canning Co. Your workmen, while here, conducted themselves as gentlemen and left a good impression on the people with whom they came in contact.”
“Finding remnants of original decorative patterns that had been whitewashed for 75 years. [John Canning Co.] restored them to their splendor and created a beautiful worship space for the present day community.”