Historical Renovations

Preserving history through renovation requires a deep understanding of architectural integrity, specialized construction techniques, and compliance with historic preservation regulations. At MPS Engineering & Construction, we have extensive experience restoring historic buildings throughout the Southeast, with a strong emphasis on projects in the Charleston region. Our team is dedicated to maintaining the character and authenticity of historically significant structures while ensuring they meet modern safety, efficiency, and usability standards.

Expertise in Historic Preservation

Historical renovations require a specialized approach that balances preservation with functionality. Our team understands the complexities of working with older buildings, from restoring original materials to upgrading structural elements without compromising historical authenticity. Each project is approached with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that architectural features, materials, and design elements remain true to the building’s original era.

We have worked on historic structures ranging from residential homes and commercial buildings to government properties and cultural landmarks. Whether it’s a complete restoration or a selective renovation, our team ensures that the building’s legacy is protected while integrating modern improvements that enhance its longevity.

Navigating Preservation Regulations

Restoring a historic property requires compliance with strict local, state, and federal preservation guidelines. MPS has extensive experience working with regulatory agencies to ensure projects meet historic preservation standards while aligning with modern building codes. We collaborate with:

• The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to follow state guidelines for historical restoration.
• The National Park Service to comply with federal historic preservation requirements for buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Charleston’s Board of Architectural Review (BAR) to ensure that renovations in Charleston’s historic districts adhere to city preservation standards.
• Other preservation agencies and organizations that oversee restoration projects.

Our knowledge of these regulations allows us to streamline the approval process, helping clients navigate the often complex requirements of historical restoration.

Challenges of Historical Renovations

Historic buildings come with unique challenges that require experience and specialized techniques. Unlike modern construction projects, historical renovations often involve uncovering hidden structural issues, working with outdated materials, and adhering to specific restoration methods to maintain authenticity.

Some common challenges include:

• Material Matching – Finding or recreating historic materials, including woodwork, brick, stone, and plaster, to match the original structure.
• Structural Reinforcement – Strengthening aging foundations, load-bearing walls, and support beams while preserving original architectural elements.
• Masonry and Stucco Restoration – Repairing and repointing historic brick and stonework to maintain durability while retaining the historic appearance.
• Window and Door Preservation – Restoring original wooden windows and doors, or replicating them with historically accurate materials and methods.
• Roof Restoration – Replacing roofing with historically appropriate materials that maintain the aesthetic and structural integrity of the building.
• Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Upgrades – Integrating modern systems while ensuring they remain discreet and do not alter the historic character of the building.

At MPS, we have the experience and technical knowledge to address these challenges while ensuring that historic structures retain their original charm and architectural significance.

Best Practices for Historic Preservation

Our President, L. Kai Yeh, PE, is a registered Professional Engineer with years of experience in historical renovations. He actively stays up to date with best practices in historic preservation, ensuring that our team incorporates the latest techniques in restoration while respecting traditional craftsmanship.

Some of the key principles we follow in historic renovations include:

• Preserve and Restore When Possible – Retaining as much original material as feasible, using restoration techniques to repair rather than replace.
• Use Historically Accurate Materials – Sourcing period-appropriate materials or working with skilled artisans to recreate original details.
• Ensure Modern Compatibility – Integrating modern features such as electrical, HVAC, and plumbing without altering the historic fabric of the building.
• Follow Preservation Guidelines – Adhering to local, state, and federal preservation requirements to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.