Consulting & Pre-Construction Services

Guiding and collaborating on projects from concept through implementation. 

Our knowledge and expertise in materials and preservation techniques allows us to provide problem-solving solutions for architects and clients from concept to project completion.

John Canning & Co. prides itself on creating a collaborative environment with the project team - Owner/Architect/Contractor. With over 45 years of experience as a specialty architectural arts contractor working in National Landmarks and historic buildings, we are able to thoughtfully conceptualize a project from the design phase through implementation. 

For renovations and modernization projects, we are able to inform the process along the way through historic research, paint investigations, and plaster surveys. Renderings, drawings, and mock-ups provide a visual for the project and help define the project scope. Self-performing various trade services, our on staff Project Managers, conservators, and craftsmen are able to manage the schedule and costs to ensure the project goals are met. 

Consulting & Pre-Construction Services For Each Stage of a Project

PRE-CONSTRUCTION & PLANNING

HISTORIC BUILDING CONDITIONS ASSESSMENT

HISTORIC PAINT ANALYSIS

PLASTER CONDITIONS SURVEY

Collaborating with Organizations Nationally

New York Landmark Conservancy
AGC
Preservation Massachusetts
Preservation Alliance
Boston Society of Architects

Case Study

Academy of Music Ballroom

John Canning & Co. uncovered and reinstated the lost historic decorative scheme. 

John Canning Co. consultation began with an historic paint analysis, investigation and exposures, and a plaster conditions analysis in the Academy of Music ballroom.

The work to be restored in the ballroom was completed in 1857. We referenced an 1860 photograph to inform our meticulous replication of the original design scheme. Where we could not determine the original decoration, we created new decoration working in the established style.

16  
Layers of overpaint
8  
Commissioned Murals
2
Awards
Philadelphia-Academy-of-Music-500px

Download a Copy of Our Brochure

Download a free copy of our brochure to learn more about each of the services provided by John Canning & Co.

We have found that we can rely on Canning’s sound judgement and high level of attention to completing the work on time and on budget.

Ruthann Hubbard-Kemper
Executive Director, Pennsylvania Capitol Preservation Committee

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the scope of work, a findings report or conditions assessment can be provided to document the existing conditions of the historic material. 

Architectural drawings are often prepared to map or document areas of repair and restoration. Digital or watercolor renderings can be provided to represent the historic scheme within a space. 

Yes, our on staff architectural materials conservators are experienced in various materials and substrates including, stone, metal, and woodwork. 

We will work closely with the design team to develop conservation solutions or document areas requiring repair, patching, or replication. 

Yes, our knowledge in historic materials and finishes allows us to assist in material selection and execution to be incorporated in specifications.

Where VOC and LEED limits are to be maintained, we will work with the project team to identify products that will meet the requirements while respecting the historic integrity of the finish. 

Let's Discuss Your Project