Blog

Navigating the Historic District Commission: What Approvals a Restoration Project Actually Needs and How Long They Take

A practical guide for institutional and commercial owners on what historic district commission approvals a restoration project actually requires, which repairs need a hearing, and how to build review timelines into the construction schedule.

Façade Easements and Historic Preservation Covenants: What Building Owners Sign Away — and Gain — for Tax Credits

What a façade easement actually restricts, how it differs from a historic tax credit covenant, and why institutional owners donate one anyway.

Restoring a Mid-Century Landmark for Modern Use: Lessons From the Canham Restoration Project

Lessons from JC Beal's Canham restoration: modernizing a mid-century landmark while working 40 feet above an active pool deck in an occupied building.

Adaptive Reuse vs. Historic Restoration: When a Vacant Downtown Building Should Become Something Else Entirely

Not every vacant downtown landmark should be restored to its original use. A framework for Detroit and Toledo building owners deciding between historic restoration and adaptive reuse.