Business Details
31 Years
experience
Expert Historic Preservation & Restoration Services in New York, NY
John G Waite Associates Architects has been a leader in historic preservation architecture for nearly three decades. Our firm specializes in restoration, adaptive reuse, and new design for historic properties across the United States. Our meticulous approach stems from a deep respect for historic buildings and a commitment to stewardship of these critical resources. Founded in 1995, with roots tracing back to a pre-World War II architectural practice, we have restored hundreds of historic buildings nationwide and received over fifty preservation awards. Our team of architects, historic interiors specialists, and building materials conservators combines sustainable design solutions with state-of-the-art preservation technology.We emphasize detailed archival research, thorough investigation of historic materials, and current conservation procedures to ensure the longevity of culturally significant structures. Our LEED-accredited professionals view each project as an opportunity to implement sustainable design within sound preservation frameworks. With offices in Albany and New York City, we provide leadership in preserving the nation's architectural heritage. Our work realizes energy and material savings while protecting cultural and architectural legacies for future generations. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that balance modern needs with historic integrity.
Services
Historic Preservation
Building Restoration
Adaptive Reuse
New Design in Historic Context
Preservation Planning
Historic Structure Reports
Building Conservation
Masonry Conservation
Paint Analysis
Sustainable Design Integration
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We have 30+ years of specialized experience in historic preservation architecture
- Our team includes LEED-accredited professionals with expertise in sustainable design
- We have received over 50 historic preservation awards for our projects
- We combine archival research with state-of-the-art preservation technology
- Our firm has completed restoration projects for nationally significant landmarks
Associations and certifications
- LEED
Services
Historic Preservation
Our historic preservation services combine archival research with modern conservation techniques to maintain architectural integrity while implementing sustainable solutions. We specialize in comprehensive restoration of culturally significant buildings, applying state-of-the-art technology to traditional materials. Our approach ensures long-term preservation while meeting contemporary functional requirements for buildings across the United States.
Building Restoration
We provide complete building restoration services for historic structures, including masonry conservation, paint analysis, and materials testing. Our team conducts thorough condition assessments and develops detailed restoration plans that respect original construction methods while incorporating modern safety standards. Projects range from minor repairs to full-scale reconstructions of significant landmarks.
Adaptive Reuse
Our adaptive reuse expertise transforms historic buildings for modern applications while preserving their architectural character. We develop feasibility studies and master plans that balance preservation requirements with contemporary functionality. This includes space programming, code compliance upgrades, and integration of modern systems while maintaining historic fabric and aesthetics.
Preservation Technology
We apply advanced preservation technologies including non-destructive evaluation, paint seriation analysis, and material testing. Our conservation services cover masonry, metals, and wood restoration, along with historic textiles and furnishings analysis. These scientific approaches ensure accurate restoration decisions and long-term preservation effectiveness for diverse building materials.
Historic Structure Reports
We develop comprehensive Historic Structure Reports that serve as foundational documents for preservation projects. These reports compile archival research, physical investigations, and material analysis to guide restoration decisions. Our reports provide detailed frameworks for contract documents and restoration plans, ensuring systematic preservation of historic buildings according to professional standards.
People
John G. Waite
Founder/Principal
Over 40 years of experience in historic preservation, Fellow of AIA and APT International, recipient of APT's Harley J. McKee Award, and author of 50+ publications. Developed the Historic Structure Report methodology while serving as Senior Historical Architect for New York State.
Nancy A. Rankin
Principal
LEED AP with 20+ years at JGWA, oversees NYC office. Specializes in integrating modern technology with historic preservation. Managed prominent projects including Tweed Courthouse and Cincinnati Union Terminal restoration. Active member of APTI Technical Committee on Sustainable Preservation.
Chelle M. Jenkins
Historic Preservation Specialist
Over 20 years of experience in historic structure reports, contributing to major projects like Yin Yu Tang, Statue of Liberty, and Lincoln Memorial. Holds Master of Historic Preservation from Columbia University and serves on Brigham Young University's library board.
William Brandow
Principal
25+ years as masonry conservation specialist, expert in conditions assessments and historic structure reports. Key contributor to projects including Farmington Meetinghouse relocation and University of Virginia restorations, combining technical expertise with preservation principles.
Shannon Brown
Principal
Project manager with extensive experience in full design and construction processes. Led restoration of Fort Ticonderoga Pavilion and Basilica of Saint Lawrence rehabilitation. Integral team member for significant projects including University of Virginia Rotunda restoration.
Questions
What services does John G. Waite Associates specialize in?
We specialize in historic preservation architecture, including building restoration, adaptive reuse, new design in historic contexts, preservation planning, and building conservation services.
How long has the firm been in operation?
The firm was founded in 1995 but traces its roots to a general architectural practice established before World War II, with over 30 years of specialized preservation experience.
What makes your firm unique in historic preservation?
Our approach combines detailed archival research, thorough material analysis, and sustainable design principles with state-of-the-art preservation technology for comprehensive solutions.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We provide services nationwide across the United States, with offices in Albany and New York City serving as our primary bases of operation.
What notable projects have you completed?
Our portfolio includes restoration of the Statue of Liberty, Lincoln Memorial, University of Virginia's Rotunda, and New York City's Tweed Courthouse, among hundreds of other historic landmarks.
Do you offer sustainable design solutions?
Yes, our LEED-accredited professionals integrate sustainable design practices into all preservation projects to achieve energy efficiency while maintaining historic integrity.
