We love the charm of historic buildings, especially for a business. It’s age shouldn’t stop you from renovating though. These tips to renovating a historic building for your business will remove some stress from the task.
If done right, renovating your historic property is never a bad idea. While it will take patience and planning, creating a sleek environment amidst classic architecture can be great for business. Below we’ll show you how to properly breathe life back into an old space.
Blending new and old is appealing to the eye. Whether you’re showcasing original brick walls, refurbishing metal door handles or constructing a new conference room, historic building renovation introduces new elements to a well-aged space. We’ll help you cultivate a respectable, new look with the help of a few simple steps!
Logistics
In planning to renovate your historic property, first check to see if there are any laws prohibiting you from doing so. According to the Massachusetts Historical Commission, your property will only need prior review if it requires funding, licenses or permits from any federal or state agencies. If it does not, you’re good to begin creating the space you’ve always wanted.
Make use of original elements
The best thing about historic buildings is their authentic character. When planning to renovate, you must consider what elements make the space so special in order to preserve and highlight them. Build around beautiful wooden beams, old brick walls, and shiny metal radiators to accentuate a flawless blend of new and old.
Like ancient bridges, antique spaces tend to have incredibly well-built features. While there may be new tasteful options out there today, certain things can’t be reproduced. For example, original wooden windows tend to be energy efficient and better constructed than their modern counterpart; And, changing out the plaster for drywall can severely deduct from the value and look of your property. Take some time to research what is worth saving.
Introduce modern design
Along with preserving specific parts of an old building, it is equally important to incorporate a modern look, especially in spaces you will be using most like the bathroom, kitchen, and meeting spaces. Putting in stainless steel appliances, glass wall-dividers, cool art pieces and a paint job that stands out, will transform your property.
Lighting is key
Depending on what your property used to function as –an old mill, a warehouse, a factory, a bank, bus station, etc.– you may need to implement some new lighting methods. With more advanced technology today, you have the opportunity to utilize modern lighting units in ways the pilgrims never could have dreamed of. Before doing so, however, make sure to check in with an electrician or contractor.
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