Business Details
50 Years
experience
Expert Historic Preservation Architecture in Minneapolis
Founded in 1976, we are a nationally recognized architectural firm specializing in historic preservation and building forensics. Our team of architects, preservationists, and researchers combines decades of experience with cutting-edge technology to solve complex challenges in existing structures. We prioritize stewardship of both buildings and relationships, emphasizing respect, teamwork, and clear communication in every project. Our expertise spans restoration, adaptive reuse, and preservation planning for historic properties of all eras.Certified as a woman-owned business, we champion diversity in architecture while maintaining rigorous adherence to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards. With offices in Minneapolis, we serve clients nationwide through personalized, research-driven solutions that ensure historic buildings thrive for future generations.
Services
Historic Preservation
Building Forensics
Adaptive Reuse
Restoration Design
Archival Research
Preservation Planning
Historic Tax Credits
Worship Space Preservation
Modern-Era Preservation
Legacy Grant Consulting
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of specialized experience in historic preservation architecture
- Our team uses advanced forensic investigation methods and technology
- All architects meet federal historic preservation professional qualifications
- Certified woman-owned business with national recognition
- We maintain a people-first culture with flexible, collaborative work practices
Associations and certifications
- NCARB
- Secretary of the Interior's Standards Professional Qualifications
Services
Historic Preservation
We specialize in maintaining and restoring historic buildings while preserving their architectural integrity. Our approach combines archival research with modern technology to develop solutions that respect original materials and construction methods. Clients benefit from our deep understanding of historic building systems and regulatory requirements for preservation projects.
Building Forensics
Our forensic investigations use thermal imaging, drones, and moisture meters to diagnose complex building issues. This scientific approach identifies root causes of deterioration in historic structures, enabling targeted repairs that maintain historical accuracy while addressing modern performance needs. Our team's expertise spans over 45 years of problem-solving for challenging preservation cases.
Adaptive Reuse
We transform historic structures for contemporary use while maintaining their character-defining features. Our solutions convert obsolete buildings into functional spaces that meet modern needs, from converting churches into condos to repurposing industrial sites for new commercial uses. This approach extends building lifespans while preserving architectural heritage.
Restoration Design
Our restoration services return buildings to specific historical periods through meticulous research and craftsmanship. We analyze original materials and construction techniques to recreate authentic details, from paint colors to architectural elements. This work requires specialized expertise in period-specific building practices that our team has developed over decades of preservation projects.
Preservation Planning
We develop comprehensive plans for maintaining and utilizing historic properties over time. Our planning process considers both immediate needs and long-term stewardship, creating roadmaps for preservation that balance historical significance with practical requirements. This includes guidance for meeting federal and state preservation standards while achieving project goals.
People
Angela Wolf Scott
CEO/President and Principal Architect
Licensed architect with expertise in historic preservation and sustainability. Recipient of AIA Young Architect Awards at state and national levels. Holds NCARB certification and fulfills federal preservation standards. Leads firm operations while maintaining active project involvement.
Todd Grover
CFO/Vice President and Principal Architect
Licensed in four states with focus on modern-era buildings. Adjunct professor at University of Minnesota and Docomomo board member. Combines architectural practice with academic contributions to preservation education and standards development.
Stuart MacDonald
Principal Emeritus
Co-founder with 45+ years of preservation experience. Former National Park Service architect and expert in American building technology. Maintains active role in projects while mentoring next-generation preservationists. Recognized for hand-drafting expertise.
Robert Mack
Principal Emeritus
Co-founder and AIA College of Fellows member. Developed preservation standards and taught graduate-level courses for 20+ years. Recipient of AIA Minnesota Gold Medal. Oversees project quality while contributing to national preservation discourse through writing and education.
Madelyn Grover
Architect and Preservation Consultant
Licensed architect with expertise in community-driven preservation. Serves on Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission and Minnesota Historical Society advisory committee. Focuses on sustainable adaptive reuse and heritage designation processes that balance community needs with preservation goals.
Questions
What makes your firm unique in historic preservation?
We combine 45+ years of experience with cutting-edge forensic technology and a people-first approach to preservation. Our team meets federal professional standards while maintaining a collaborative, flexible work culture.
How do you handle complex building investigations?
We use thermal cameras, drones, and moisture meters alongside traditional methods to diagnose issues. Our forensic approach identifies root causes while preserving historic materials and construction techniques.
Can you help with historic tax credit applications?
Yes, we guide clients through state and federal historic tax credit processes. Our team has extensive experience meeting documentation requirements and compliance standards for preservation projects.
What project types do you specialize in?
We work on diverse projects including churches, civic buildings, houses, and industrial sites. Specialties include modern-era preservation, worship spaces, and adaptive reuse of historic structures.
How do you balance preservation with modern needs?
Our designs integrate contemporary functionality while maintaining historic character. We develop solutions that respect original architecture while meeting current performance standards and accessibility requirements.
Are you involved in preservation education?
Yes, our principals teach at the University of Minnesota and contribute to professional education programs. We also provide continuing education to peers and mentor emerging preservation professionals.
