Since every historic restoration project is different, the selection of an architectural restoration contractor should be based on the firm’s capacity to handle and adapt to construction environments based on their experience and expertise, all preceded by a positive reputation. It is crucial that a strong relationship based on trust and mutual understanding of the project expectations is fostered early on in the project development. To ensure the correct architectural restoration contractor is selected, the following are a few questions and steps to take, as well as what to expect.
Define the Scope of Work and Project Schedule
Defining the scope of a project can be done with or prior to selecting a restoration contractor. This is an important aspect of the project since a detailed scope and thorough preconstruction investigations will allow for a smoother project. During this process, one typically studies not only the details of the project at hand but also the history of the building in order to compile a comprehensive profile on the project. This information informs budgets and schedules, and it intends to dispel as many unknowns as possible.
Consider Access and Determine Project Limitations
When defining the scope of work, be sure to determine onsite access, protection, and potential restrictions to the work. The cost of access is determined by the scope of work and the project timeline. Therefore, when developing budgets, it is paramount to consider all cost factors and weigh potential restrictions to ensure estimates are as precise as possible.
As a part of defining the scope of work, developing budgets, and determining the project schedule, any limitations on the use of the building will be important to consider and will affect access and timeline. For example, if the building or interior will continue to be in use during the restoration, an understanding of that use and the daily routines of individuals frequenting the building is important to consider while developing access plans and a project schedule to ensure the building remains safe and the project runs efficiently.
If working with a restoration contractor during this phase, the contractor can assist in gathering quotes for the on-site access necessary to complete the work. Firms should also be capable of advising on how best to handle interiors that are intended to remain in use during construction.
Research Firms to Define Qualifications
When selecting an architectural restoration contractor, it is essential to consider numerous firms to compare and contrast. Key points to keep in mind are a firm’s reliability, expertise, previous experience, adaptability, and reputation. If a scope of work has already been established, selecting a restoration contractor is propelled by the firm most capable of addressing the needs of the project, as well as the collaborative capabilities of company leadership with the owner leadership. If the scope has not been developed, the owner may ask multiple firms to prepare bids based on the owner’s requests and the perceived needs of the building. Comparison of these bids will begin to contextualize the different firms as well as the cost of the project.
We supported all stages of the Culinary Institute of America project, including preservation research, restoration, and conservation, to rejuvenate the original Jesuit chapel’s sacred design with new decoration elements. (Left) Farquharson Hall before restoration (Right) after restoration.
Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the restoration team will require various individuals to manage the work. While researching different restoration firms, customer service and adaptability are important things to keep in mind since you will want to create a working relationship with the firm to address the scope, potential issues, and develop solutions. Ideally, a firm is able to answer questions not only as it relates to their trade(s) but also direct you to other affiliated companies and trades that may better address areas of the project outside their expertise.
The transparency of a healthy working relationship lends itself naturally to building a restoration team. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the restoration contractor may aid in the selection of vendors and subcontractors.
Build a Restoration Team
During the selection process, it is important to request information from contractors regarding their projected team for your project. Ideally, you can organize time to meet the team. Communication and collaboration, combined with expertise, are crucial to a successful restoration project. Understanding who from the company will be managing, supervising, and coordinating from the field to the office will provide greater confidence in the competence of a given firm and the potential for a positive working relationship.
Further, an invested restoration contractor should be able to assist with fundraising efforts through marketing, meetings, and presentations to the appropriate parties. An open dialogue, strong leadership, and a solid team typically make for a successful project.
CIA after restoration.
Conclusion
When selecting a restoration contractor, the owner places the trust and care of the construction in a firm. It is therefore paramount to consider the reputation and ethical standards of different firms to ensure you have the best fit for your project. Remember, every project is different. A restoration contractor must be capable of adapting their expertise to your project. Additionally, though firms typically handle multiple projects at a time, you want to ensure the firm is properly invested in your project and not spread too thin with too many projects. This is important for a smooth project and ensuring the historical respect for the construction.
There are a number of ways the owner may remain active in the project. Regular progress reviews can be scheduled during key phases of the project, as well as periodical walk-throughs to ask questions. Trust and transparency are necessary on any construction project so that together the owner and the contractor may efficiently solve any potential problems. This type of relationship also ensures the owners’ ability to use and rely on the expertise of the contractor.
On any restoration project, the combination of communication and expertise is crucial to success. The firm must possess the capacity to relay its knowledge in a clear and professional manner and deliver quality results on time.
