Adaptive Reuse: Transforming Old Buildings into New Commercial Spaces in Connecticut

Old buildings, with their distinctive character and interesting architectural features, are worth preserving. In Connecticut, one of the oldest states in the nation, historic buildings are a part of our state identity and a source of pride. These old buildings were built for a different era and present unique issues to consider when remodeling. 

Hiring an experienced Connecticut contractor that understands these unique issues is important for ensuring a successful remodel. Knowing what to expect is also important, as this will help you make decisions as you move forward with your renovation. In this article, we'll discuss what you need to know about adaptive reuse and how this is different from standard commercial remodeling. 

Benefits of Adaptive Reuse

For many business owners, the true benefit of renovating an old building is the inspiring experience of owning a building that has been in use for decades or even centuries. Below, we've listed some other benefits to consider when you're trying to decide if renovating a historic building is the right move for your business.  

• Ambiance. Historic buildings have beauty that can't be found in modern buildings. For businesses like restaurants, which rely on ambiance to enhance the customer experience, historic buildings easily achieve that goal. 
• Stories to tell. Having a story to tell can humanize your business and create an emotional bond with customers. Installing your business in a structure that has its own story and historical significance can support storytelling efforts, giving customers something to think about and talk about regarding your business. 
• Sustainability. They say the greenest building is one that's already been built. Preservation of a historic building is a naturally sustainable process that re-uses old building materials and creates less waste for landfills.  
• High-value investment. Historic buildings typically have a higher market value than recently constructed structures in the same neighborhood. As buildings age, they often gain value - provided that they're well-maintained and properly renovated for modern use. 
• Funding options. In some cases, government funding is available to preserve and protect historic buildings that need updating.

Remodeling Process: What to Expect

Remodeling is an involved process. Taking the remodel one step at a time and having a plan can help make the renovation less overwhelming. Here's what to expect as you proceed with your remodel. 

Make Goals and a Budget

Knowing what you hope to accomplish and having a list of priorities can help you as you choose a team, approve designs, and manage your renovation budget. At this stage, it's also important to know how much you can afford to spend on your project. 

The budgeting process can be lengthy, especially if your business is shopping for a loan or if your business works with a board. Get started early to allow for plenty of time. 

Assemble Your Team

Except in a few very rare circumstances, commercial building projects in Connecticut require an architect. 

When you're searching for an architect to help with your project, consider their experience remodeling historic structures. Interview at least two or three professionals before making a final selection. If you already have a contractor picked out, they may be able to refer you to an architect that would be good for your project. 

When you're selecting a contractor, look for a professional with experience renovating historic structures. Ask questions about their previous work, and if they have pictures of their craftsmanship, be sure to take a look. Some questions to ask potential contractors:

• Have you renovated structures built in this time period?
• What are the challenges to renovating buildings from this time period?
• Do you have references?

Approve a Design

Work with your architect to create a design. Be ready to communicate about your goals and budget at the start of the design process. It's important to get the design right, as making last-minute changes once a design is approved can increase costs and slow the project.

Get ADA Compliant

It's unlikely that your historic building will be naturally ADA compliant. ADA compliance is the law, and will be required to get the work permitted. Your contractor and architect will work together with a code specialist to bring your building into compliance. Just be aware that ADA-related changes will likely be necessary and, if so, will increase the cost of your project. 

Get Permits, Follow the Rules

There are many rules to follow when you're renovating a historic building. Typically, these rules are established by a local historical society or district that oversees the area's historic buildings. The district must approve the designs. Historical societies establish different rules in each community. Get prepared for the process by learning about the historical society rules in your area. Some things to be aware of:

• Dramatic changes to the facade and parts of the building that can be seen from the street are unlikely to be approved. 
• Additions that cannot be seen from the street are sometimes approved (and sometimes not). 
• You may need to get the work approved at various stages of the process, so plan to work extensively with the historical society or district. 

In addition to the approval from the historical society, plan to get permits from your local zoning office. If your building is going through a change of use process, you may need to hold public meetings to alert the area residents. 

Your local zoning officials and the historical society members will help walk you through these processes. 

Get Started With Adaptive Reuse in Connecticut

Adaptive reuse helps keep beautiful historic buildings relevant and attractive. When you take on a renovation in a historic building, you play a role in history, and help shape the future of a treasured structure. Hire the right Connecticut contractor for the job. Download our free guide to learn more about hiring the right contractor, or contact Litchfield Builders to discuss your upcoming project.