At Scott-Long Construction, we believe in the importance and beauty of historical structures. As towns all across America age and expand, we see far too often that awe-inspiring buildings are replaced with drab, cookie-cutter construction.
While new construction offers its own unique beauty, we also appreciate the charm and character that come with existing structures. And sometimes old buildings need to be demolished for safety and environmental reasons. But whenever possible, it is important to preserve historic buildings to maintain the character of a town, neighborhood, block, etc. We strive to prioritize reimagining existing spaces and delivering lasting value to the communities we serve.
Check out some of our work in historic restoration below!
Church of the Advent
Our number one goal for this current historical renovation project is to create a safe and accessible space for people to have a warm and inviting environment. Work includes HVAC replacement and repairs, electrical upgrades, fire alarm and sprinkler system upgrades, and an ADA bathroom in the fellowship hall. In the sanctuary, we are stabilizing the balcony, upgrading railings, adding ductwork to support the new mechanical system, and providing ADA access to the sanctuary by installing a lift.
Washington National Cathedral Crypt
In this project, we performed intricate renovations to the historic crypt located in the Chapel of St. Joseph of Arimathea. The renovation work included expanding the columbaria capacity, setting new stone flooring, and improved lighting. To perform this work, we first removed the existing vaults, framed new vaults and installed stone cladding. The flooring was replaced with limestone and slate slabs, and at the rear of the crypt, an aperture comprised of three large pieces of limestone was assembled.
St. Peter’s Capitol Hill Bell Tower
St. Peter’s Church on Capitol Hill, built in 1889-1890 and home to the second oldest Catholic parish in the nation’s capital, discovered that water was infiltrating in from their 110-foot bell tower. Due to the historic significance of the Church, it was important for the project team to stop water from coming in while preserving the structural integrity of the bell tower and keeping the Church operational, with minimal disruption to services.
St. Alban’s School
This project includes multiple components and features the total restoration of two dormers on the True-Lucas education building and nine dormers on the 100 year old Lane-Johnston education building.
The Barns of Wolf Trap
Made up of two adjacent 18th-century barns, The Barns was a gift from Wolf Trap’s founder, Catherine Filene Shouse, in 1981. Impressed by the acoustical quality of the wooden barn after attending a concert in one in Maine, Ms. Shouse wanted to bring the same informal and acoustical setting to Wolf Trap. Scott-Long was selected to restore and rebuild the barns on the present site using only the 18th century “block and tackle” methods, gin poles, ropes, and manpower.
“Whenever we start a project on an existing building, we always assess if there is a historical significance to the structure. We never want to alter the history or character of a community when we adapt a structure into another use,” said John Scott, CEO of Scott-Long Construction. “We then ensure every step of our construction plan factors in preservation, safety, and cost-effectiveness to create a win-win for everyone involved.”
Scott-Long Construction also coordinates with local historic preservation societies prior to any renovation of this kind. This involves collaborating with the client on creative solutions to update the space while preserving its historical integrity.
Want to learn more about what we can do?
Don’t hesitate to contact us! Scott-Long has a strong track record in transforming existing structures into modern, functional spaces while preserving their historical value–often relying on the use of authentic, period-appropriate building materials.