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48 Years
experience
Expert Historic Preservation Architects in San Diego
Founded in 1978, Heritage Architecture has dedicated over four decades to preserving and revitalizing historic structures across the Southwest. Our firm combines traditional craftsmanship with modern construction technologies to safeguard cultural heritage while meeting contemporary needs. We specialize in historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and architectural design, adhering strictly to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards. Our multidisciplinary team of architects, historians, and conservators brings technical expertise and deep historical understanding to every project. With licenses in California, Arizona, and Nevada, we have completed hundreds of culturally significant projects, including the restoration of iconic landmarks like the Hotel del Coronado and Balboa Theatre.

Our work emphasizes sustainability through building reuse, reducing environmental impact while maintaining architectural integrity. Recognized by the Secretary of the Interior for our specialization, we provide full-service architecture, planning, and conservation services tailored to each project's unique requirements. Client testimonials highlight our professionalism, technical proficiency, and ability to deliver complex historic projects on time and budget. As a certified Small Business Enterprise, we remain committed to advancing the field of historic architecture through innovation and collaboration.
Services
Historic Restoration Adaptive Reuse Architectural Conservation Historic Research Preservation Planning Building Rehabilitation Design Guidelines Code Compliance Feasibility Studies Historic Surveys
Details
  • Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
  • We offer 40+ years of specialized experience in historic architecture and preservation.
  • Our team includes licensed architects meeting Secretary of the Interior qualification standards.
  • Certified Small Business Enterprise with proven success in complex landmark projects.
  • Recognized by National Trust and California Preservation Foundation for excellence.
  • Licensed in California, Arizona, and Nevada with multidisciplinary in-house expertise.
Associations and certifications
  • Secretary of the Interior
  • Certified Small Business Enterprise (SBE)
What people say
Highly qualified professionals Exceptional restoration work Excellent understanding of historic standards Delivered on time and budget Invaluable historic expertise
Services
Historic Restoration
Specialized restoration of historic buildings maintains architectural integrity while incorporating modern requirements. Our team recreates missing elements using traditional methods and materials, ensuring compliance with preservation standards. We've successfully completed landmark restorations including facades, interiors, and structural components for buildings dating from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Adaptive Reuse
Transforming historic structures for modern functionality while preserving cultural significance. We develop creative solutions for repurposing abandoned or underutilized buildings, balancing preservation requirements with contemporary needs for commercial, residential, or public use across California and the Southwest.
Architectural Conservation
Specialized conservation of original building materials using proven techniques to extend their lifespan. Our approach focuses on preserving historic finishes, structural elements, and decorative features through careful documentation, analysis, and implementation of protective treatments and maintenance plans.
Historic Research
Comprehensive historical investigation and documentation for preservation projects. Services include Historic Structure Reports, condition assessments, and research into original construction methods, enabling informed decision-making for restoration and adaptive reuse projects across diverse architectural styles.
Preservation Planning
Developing strategic plans for historic building preservation including feasibility studies, master plans, and compliance documentation. We prepare Historic American Building Surveys and environmental impact assessments to guide preservation efforts while meeting regulatory requirements and long-term sustainability goals.
People
David Marshall
Principal, Architect
Licensed architect with extensive experience in historic preservation projects, specializing in adaptive reuse of culturally significant buildings across the Southwest region.
Brian Rickling
Principal, Architect
AIA-certified architect leading preservation projects that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern construction technologies for heritage buildings.
Carmen Pauli
Principal, Architect
NCARB-registered architect with specialization in historic building codes and compliance requirements for preservation projects across multiple states.
Eileen Magno
Principal, Architectural Historian
Architectural historian documenting building histories and developing preservation strategies based on thorough historical research and analysis.
Stuart Sawasaki
Principal, Architect
Experienced architect focused on sustainable preservation practices, transforming historic buildings for modern use while maintaining architectural integrity.
Questions
What types of projects does Heritage specialize in?
We specialize in historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and restoration of culturally significant buildings including hotels, theaters, government buildings, and educational institutions.
How does Heritage approach historic building conservation?
We follow the 'restore rather than replace' principle, using specialized techniques to preserve original materials while meeting modern code requirements and functional needs.
Are Heritage's architects qualified for historic projects?
All project managers meet Secretary of the Interior qualification standards, with specialized expertise in historic building codes and preservation best practices.
In which states does Heritage operate?
We are licensed in California, Arizona, and Nevada, with completed projects across the Southwest region including landmark buildings in major metropolitan areas.
What recognitions has Heritage received?
We've received multiple National Trust Awards, California Preservation Foundation Awards, and recognition from the Secretary of the Interior for our preservation excellence.
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