Breathing new life into a historic building can prove difficult without the right technology. Fortunately, advancements in this area have made it easier than ever before to find the right approach, sometimes even before beginning renovation. With ready access to tools such as laser scanning, thermal cameras, drones and wireless integration, to name a few, a higher-quality project can be delivered in a shorter amount of time.
No project is without its own problems, especially when it comes to historical renovation. Challenges often encountered on such projects include trying to figure out how to best maximize use of space while maintaining historic finishes, or a shortage of specialized skilled labor for custom renovation scopes. Despite improved technology, an aging and changing workforce means fewer apprentice-type skilled tradespeople are passing down their expertise to the next generation.
“Owners who are considering a renovation project must put a great deal of consideration into who they hire to do the work — both from a design and a construction standpoint,” says Jeff Callinan, a vice president with JE Dunn. “At JE Dunn, we pride ourselves on our extensive experience with historic renovations and using technology and expertise to be able to ‘see through the walls’ and anticipate what is ahead.”
With the right project team, tools and technology, Callinan says, surprises can be avoided. Technology in the construction industry today allows JE Dunn to not only faithfully reproduce historic details and capture the original character of a building, but also help the client better achieve project goals and deliver a more accessible and usable space that remains true to the original.
