Business Details
36 Years
experience
Expert Historic Preservation & Architectural Design in Corning
Johnson-Schmidt Elise Architect P.C. is a firm dedicated to historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and architectural design that bridges heritage with modern functionality. Founded on principles of respecting buildings, budgets, and communities, we specialize in creating spaces that honor historical integrity while meeting contemporary needs. Our team combines deep expertise in architectural history with hands-on project management to deliver solutions for commercial, institutional, municipal, and residential clients. We excel in navigating complex preservation challenges, including tax credit applications, code compliance, and downtown revitalization. With decades of collective experience, our architects have shaped over 150 projects, including landmark restorations like Corning's Southside Historic District and New York's Grand Central Terminal.Recognized with awards such as the NYS Senate Woman of Distinction and Excellence in Historic Preservation, we prioritize client collaboration, contextual sensitivity, and sustainable design practices. Our services span architectural design, rehabilitation, environmental context analysis, and historic paint color consulting, ensuring each project reflects the unique character of its community. We maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, emphasizing transparency and attention to detail throughout every phase of development. Our work has been featured in publications like the Wall Street Journal and recognized by institutions including the National Trust Community Investment Corporation. For over 30 years, we have been committed to preserving architectural legacy while fostering economic vitality in the communities we serve.
Services
Architectural Design
Historic Preservation
Tax Credit Applications
Downtown Revitalization
Code Compliance
Restoration Services
Adaptive Reuse
Environmental Context Analysis
Historic Paint Color Consulting
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in historic preservation and adaptive reuse projects.
- Our team includes nationally recognized leaders in architectural preservation and design.
- We specialize in navigating complex tax credit applications and code compliance processes.
- Our work has earned recognition from the National Trust Community Investment Corporation and NYS Senate.
- We combine deep historical knowledge with modern design principles for functional, sustainable spaces.
What people say
Award-winning preservation work
Deep historical knowledge
Community-focused designs
Expert tax credit navigation
Meticulous attention to detail
Services
Historic Preservation
Our historic preservation services focus on maintaining architectural integrity while adapting structures for modern use. We conduct thorough assessments, develop preservation plans, and manage restoration projects that honor historical significance. Our expertise includes navigating tax credit programs and ensuring compliance with preservation standards.
Adaptive Reuse
We transform historic buildings into functional spaces that meet contemporary needs without compromising architectural heritage. Our approach includes structural analysis, code compliance, and design solutions that balance historical elements with modern functionality for commercial and residential applications.
Tax Credit Applications
Our team specializes in preparing Historic Tax Credit applications and National Register nominations. We guide clients through complex documentation requirements, ensuring compliance with state and federal preservation standards while maximizing financial incentives for restoration projects.
Downtown Revitalization
We develop revitalization strategies that preserve historical character while promoting economic growth. Services include facade improvement programs, zoning analysis, and creating development plans that enhance community identity through heritage-focused design solutions.
Architectural Design
Our architectural design services integrate historical context with modern requirements. We create customized solutions for new constructions and renovations, focusing on contextual harmony, material selection, and functional layouts that respect surrounding environments while meeting client objectives.
People
Elise Johnson-Schmidt
Principal Architect & Owner
Nationally recognized preservation leader with over 30 years of experience, including 150+ historic projects. Served as Executive Director of Market Street Restoration Agency and received NYS Senate Woman of Distinction award.
Erik Lundberg
Senior Project Manager
18+ years in historic preservation with expertise in landmark rehabilitations. Holds master's in Historic Preservation from Pratt Institute and specializes in contextual zoning and material systems analysis.
Alex Whydell
Historic Preservationist
Specializes in historic tax credits and National Register nominations. Holds MS in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University with background in archaeological research and vernacular architecture analysis.
Sarah Childs
Architectural Designer I
Focuses on adaptive reuse with master's in Historic Preservation Planning from Cornell. Works toward architectural licensure while contributing to community-centered preservation projects.
K.M. Hollingsworth
Draftsperson
UNC Charlotte graduate with interdisciplinary background in architecture, English, and history. Specializes in Victorian architectural details and technical documentation for preservation projects.
Questions
What types of projects does Johnson-Schmidt Architect specialize in?
We specialize in historic preservation, adaptive reuse, tax credit applications, downtown revitalization, and architectural design for commercial, institutional, and residential clients.
How does the firm approach historic preservation?
We combine architectural history expertise with modern design principles to preserve structural integrity while implementing functional, sustainable solutions for contemporary use.
Do you work outside New York State?
While our primary focus is New York State, our team has experience with projects in Virginia, Tennessee, Massachusetts, and Michigan through consulting roles.
What awards has the firm received?
We've earned recognition including NYS Senate Woman of Distinction, Excellence in Historic Preservation awards, and National Trust Community Investment Corporation honors.
How do you handle complex preservation challenges?
Our team specializes in navigating code compliance, tax credit applications, and environmental context analysis while maintaining historical accuracy and client budgets.
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