Green preservation : a guidebook for owners of historic buildings

Abstract

Statements like "These windows are too old", "I need to build a new structure if I want it to be efficient", and "as long as it is LEED certified it must be a sustainable project" illustrate this point: There is a disconnect between preservationists and building owners when dealing with issues of sustainability. The health of our planet, and the people living on it, is by far one of the most discussed issues in the field of architecture today. 'Green' building standards and alternative energy sources are being incorporated in nearly all new-construction projects, and emission outputs are being monitored in increasingly more municipalities. Why then can't these ideas and technologies be more regularly used in existing structures? The optimistic news is they can and should be. There are many sources available on how to increase energy efficiency, but very few target the issue of how to integrate these systems and technologies into existing structures, especially if a priority of the project is to maintain historic integrity. The goal of this guidebook is to guide building owners on increasing sustainability while also promoting and relating it to historic preservation. All too often, misconceptions arise about the efficiency of historic structures and their ability to be rehabilitated. This rehabilitation is not only 'green'; it can also be economically stimulating and a powerful driving force for local and nation-wide action and pride. Throughout this guide you will find references to case studies from around the country. Many of these are from the National Main Street program, and all of them show tangible examples of sustainability being incorporated in re-development projects. These examples are meant to aid the reader in understanding the applicability of new technologies, while gaining insight into how the projects performed after implementation.