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FAQ

What does Progress Preservation do?

We specialize in the research, documentation, and strategic planning required to preserve historic buildings, landscapes, and districts. Our work spans Historic Structure Reports (HSRs), Preservation Plans, adaptive reuse consulting, policy advocacy, and public education. We connect historical insight with practical, forward-looking action.

What is a Historic Structure Report (HSR)?o I add images?

An HSR is a foundational document that tells the full story of a historic building—its origins, evolution, condition, and cultural significance. It includes: -Historical and architectural narrative -Existing condition survey -Archival and photographic documentation -Recommendations for treatment and restoration HSRs are used by property owners, preservation boards, architects, and municipalities as a trusted guide for restoration and planning. They're often required to obtain tax credits or grants and serve as the basis for Preservation Plans.

Why is an HSR important?

An HSR offers more than just historical facts—it provides a clear roadmap for preservation or restoration. It: -Identifies what is original and significant -Documents the condition of materials and structures -Recommends next steps for care, stabilization, or reuse -Supports grant applications and regulatory approvals Without it, owners risk making costly or irreversible changes based on incomplete understanding.

What is a Preservation Plan, and how does it differ from an HSR?

A Preservation Plan is a strategy document focused on implementation. While the HSR answers what the building is and why it matters, the Preservation Plan answers how to move forward. It includes: -Short- and long-term action steps -Estimated budgets and timelines -Phased restoration strategies -Regulatory and zoning pathways Together, the HSR and Preservation Plan form a comprehensive preservation toolkit.

Who are your clients?

We work with: -Private homeowners -Developers and real estate professionals -Religious organizations -Historic preservation societies -Municipalities and government agencies -Architects and general contractors Whether you're seeking designation, considering adaptive reuse, or applying for tax credits, we provide the historical foundation and strategic direction.

What kinds of buildings do you work with?

We’ve worked on everything from residential cottages and historic churches to commercial buildings and civic landmarks. We also engage with cultural landscapes and historic neighborhoods. Age alone doesn’t determine significance—we consider context, craftsmanship, and community value.

Do you only work in Charleston or South Carolina?

While we are proudly based in Charleston, South Carolina, we consult on preservation projects nationwide. Our methodology and impact scale to match the needs of the site, and we’re especially experienced with projects in historic districts, coastal towns, and culturally significant communities.

Do you help with landmark status or National Register listing?

Yes. We assist with every step of the designation process at the local, state, and federal levels. That includes: -Historical research -Documentation preparation Nomination writing -Regulatory navigation This designation can unlock access to tax credits, grants, and stronger protections.

Do you offer adaptive reuse consulting?

Yes. We believe preservation is not just about freezing history in time—it’s about making spaces viable for the future. We help clients transform historic buildings for new, relevant uses—whether that’s turning a church into a performing arts space or a warehouse into mixed-use retail.

Can you work with our architect or builder?

Absolutely. Our work complements theirs. We often provide historical analysis, design guidance, and documentation that informs architectural decisions, helps avoid costly missteps, and aligns with local preservation regulations.

What if my building isn’t ‘officially historic’?

Not every building needs a formal designation to be meaningful. We evaluate architectural character, historical context, and neighborhood value to help determine whether full preservation, partial salvage, or adaptive reuse makes the most sense. Every building has a story worth exploring.

How do you approach buildings with missing or limited documentation?

We specialize in uncovering lost stories. Using fieldwork, oral histories, and advanced archival research, we can often piece together a rich historical narrative—even when records are scarce or fragmented.

Can you help me prioritize what needs to be done first?

Yes. Our reports and preservation plans include prioritized recommendations, often organized by urgency (stabilization, critical repair, aesthetic enhancement). This helps clients plan restorations in stages—smartly and sustainably.

Do you handle the physical restoration work?

We do not act as general contractors, but we work closely with architects, preservation tradespeople, and builders to ensure their work aligns with best practices. We often serve as project advisors or historical consultants throughout the build phase.

How much do your services cost?

Fees depend on the scope, scale, and depth of services needed. We offer everything from standalone research projects to full Historic Structure Reports with phased Preservation Plans. We’re happy to provide custom proposals after an initial consultation.

Can you help me apply for grants or tax credits?

Yes. We provide research, documentation, and application assistance for historic preservation tax credits, façade easements, and grant programs at the local, state, and federal level. We also help clients ensure compliance with these programs over time.

Do you publish your research?

When appropriate—and with owner consent—we turn our findings into books, digital archives, exhibits, and educational content. This not only increases public awareness but helps preserve the cultural significance of a site long after the restoration is complete.

Do you help with public outreach or interpretive content?

Yes. We offer interpretive planning and can prepare historical signage, community programming, walking tours, and exhibit materials that help communities engage with local history in meaningful ways.

Do you advocate for policy change?

Yes. We’re deeply involved in preservation advocacy at the local and state levels. That includes supporting stronger protections for historic buildings, promoting preservation tax incentives, and educating decision-makers on the economic and cultural benefits of preservation.

Do you offer educational services or partnerships with schools?

We do. Part of our mission is to raise awareness and understanding of historic preservation among younger generations. We collaborate with schools, universities, and nonprofit organizations to create learning modules, guest lectures, and experiential opportunities.

What’s your philosophy on preservation?

We believe preservation is about stewardship, sustainability, and storytelling. It’s not about freezing buildings in time—it’s about respecting their past while adapting them for future relevance. Progress and preservation can—and must—work hand in hand.

How long does a typical HSR or Preservation Plan take?

Timelines vary, but here are general estimates: -Small Residential HSR: 4–6 weeks -Institutional or Civic HSR: 6–12 weeks -Preservation Plan: 8–16 weeks (can overlap with HSR timeline) We provide a clear project schedule at the outset, and we communicate throughout the process.

How do I get started?

Reach out via our Contact page or email us directly at info@progresspreservation.com. We’ll set up a time to talk through your goals and provide a clear proposal for next steps. Whether you’re looking to restore a historic home, reposition a civic landmark, or advocate for your community, we’re ready to help.

What does Progress Preservation do?

We specialize in the research, documentation, and strategic planning required to preserve historic buildings, landscapes, and districts. Our work spans Historic Structure Reports (HSRs), Preservation Plans, adaptive reuse consulting, policy advocacy, and public education. We connect historical insight with practical, forward-looking action.

What is a Historic Structure Report (HSR)?o I add images?

An HSR is a foundational document that tells the full story of a historic building—its origins, evolution, condition, and cultural significance. It includes: -Historical and architectural narrative -Existing condition survey -Archival and photographic documentation -Recommendations for treatment and restoration HSRs are used by property owners, preservation boards, architects, and municipalities as a trusted guide for restoration and planning. They're often required to obtain tax credits or grants and serve as the basis for Preservation Plans.

Why is an HSR important?

An HSR offers more than just historical facts—it provides a clear roadmap for preservation or restoration. It: -Identifies what is original and significant -Documents the condition of materials and structures -Recommends next steps for care, stabilization, or reuse -Supports grant applications and regulatory approvals Without it, owners risk making costly or irreversible changes based on incomplete understanding.

What is a Preservation Plan, and how does it differ from an HSR?

A Preservation Plan is a strategy document focused on implementation. While the HSR answers what the building is and why it matters, the Preservation Plan answers how to move forward. It includes: -Short- and long-term action steps -Estimated budgets and timelines -Phased restoration strategies -Regulatory and zoning pathways Together, the HSR and Preservation Plan form a comprehensive preservation toolkit.

Who are your clients?

We work with: -Private homeowners -Developers and real estate professionals -Religious organizations -Historic preservation societies -Municipalities and government agencies -Architects and general contractors Whether you're seeking designation, considering adaptive reuse, or applying for tax credits, we provide the historical foundation and strategic direction.

What kinds of buildings do you work with?

We’ve worked on everything from residential cottages and historic churches to commercial buildings and civic landmarks. We also engage with cultural landscapes and historic neighborhoods. Age alone doesn’t determine significance—we consider context, craftsmanship, and community value.

Do you only work in Charleston or South Carolina?

While we are proudly based in Charleston, South Carolina, we consult on preservation projects nationwide. Our methodology and impact scale to match the needs of the site, and we’re especially experienced with projects in historic districts, coastal towns, and culturally significant communities.

Do you help with landmark status or National Register listing?

Yes. We assist with every step of the designation process at the local, state, and federal levels. That includes: -Historical research -Documentation preparation Nomination writing -Regulatory navigation This designation can unlock access to tax credits, grants, and stronger protections.

Do you offer adaptive reuse consulting?

Yes. We believe preservation is not just about freezing history in time—it’s about making spaces viable for the future. We help clients transform historic buildings for new, relevant uses—whether that’s turning a church into a performing arts space or a warehouse into mixed-use retail.

Can you work with our architect or builder?

Absolutely. Our work complements theirs. We often provide historical analysis, design guidance, and documentation that informs architectural decisions, helps avoid costly missteps, and aligns with local preservation regulations.

What if my building isn’t ‘officially historic’?

Not every building needs a formal designation to be meaningful. We evaluate architectural character, historical context, and neighborhood value to help determine whether full preservation, partial salvage, or adaptive reuse makes the most sense. Every building has a story worth exploring.

How do you approach buildings with missing or limited documentation?

We specialize in uncovering lost stories. Using fieldwork, oral histories, and advanced archival research, we can often piece together a rich historical narrative—even when records are scarce or fragmented.

Can you help me prioritize what needs to be done first?

Yes. Our reports and preservation plans include prioritized recommendations, often organized by urgency (stabilization, critical repair, aesthetic enhancement). This helps clients plan restorations in stages—smartly and sustainably.

Do you handle the physical restoration work?

We do not act as general contractors, but we work closely with architects, preservation tradespeople, and builders to ensure their work aligns with best practices. We often serve as project advisors or historical consultants throughout the build phase.

How much do your services cost?

Fees depend on the scope, scale, and depth of services needed. We offer everything from standalone research projects to full Historic Structure Reports with phased Preservation Plans. We’re happy to provide custom proposals after an initial consultation.

Can you help me apply for grants or tax credits?

Yes. We provide research, documentation, and application assistance for historic preservation tax credits, façade easements, and grant programs at the local, state, and federal level. We also help clients ensure compliance with these programs over time.

Do you publish your research?

When appropriate—and with owner consent—we turn our findings into books, digital archives, exhibits, and educational content. This not only increases public awareness but helps preserve the cultural significance of a site long after the restoration is complete.

Do you help with public outreach or interpretive content?

Yes. We offer interpretive planning and can prepare historical signage, community programming, walking tours, and exhibit materials that help communities engage with local history in meaningful ways.

Do you advocate for policy change?

Yes. We’re deeply involved in preservation advocacy at the local and state levels. That includes supporting stronger protections for historic buildings, promoting preservation tax incentives, and educating decision-makers on the economic and cultural benefits of preservation.

Do you offer educational services or partnerships with schools?

We do. Part of our mission is to raise awareness and understanding of historic preservation among younger generations. We collaborate with schools, universities, and nonprofit organizations to create learning modules, guest lectures, and experiential opportunities.

What’s your philosophy on preservation?

We believe preservation is about stewardship, sustainability, and storytelling. It’s not about freezing buildings in time—it’s about respecting their past while adapting them for future relevance. Progress and preservation can—and must—work hand in hand.

How long does a typical HSR or Preservation Plan take?

Timelines vary, but here are general estimates: -Small Residential HSR: 4–6 weeks -Institutional or Civic HSR: 6–12 weeks -Preservation Plan: 8–16 weeks (can overlap with HSR timeline) We provide a clear project schedule at the outset, and we communicate throughout the process.

How do I get started?

Reach out via our Contact page or email us directly at info@progresspreservation.com. We’ll set up a time to talk through your goals and provide a clear proposal for next steps. Whether you’re looking to restore a historic home, reposition a civic landmark, or advocate for your community, we’re ready to help.

What does Progress Preservation do?

We specialize in the research, documentation, and strategic planning required to preserve historic buildings, landscapes, and districts. Our work spans Historic Structure Reports (HSRs), Preservation Plans, adaptive reuse consulting, policy advocacy, and public education. We connect historical insight with practical, forward-looking action.

What is a Historic Structure Report (HSR)?o I add images?

An HSR is a foundational document that tells the full story of a historic building—its origins, evolution, condition, and cultural significance. It includes: -Historical and architectural narrative -Existing condition survey -Archival and photographic documentation -Recommendations for treatment and restoration HSRs are used by property owners, preservation boards, architects, and municipalities as a trusted guide for restoration and planning. They're often required to obtain tax credits or grants and serve as the basis for Preservation Plans.

Why is an HSR important?

An HSR offers more than just historical facts—it provides a clear roadmap for preservation or restoration. It: -Identifies what is original and significant -Documents the condition of materials and structures -Recommends next steps for care, stabilization, or reuse -Supports grant applications and regulatory approvals Without it, owners risk making costly or irreversible changes based on incomplete understanding.

What is a Preservation Plan, and how does it differ from an HSR?

A Preservation Plan is a strategy document focused on implementation. While the HSR answers what the building is and why it matters, the Preservation Plan answers how to move forward. It includes: -Short- and long-term action steps -Estimated budgets and timelines -Phased restoration strategies -Regulatory and zoning pathways Together, the HSR and Preservation Plan form a comprehensive preservation toolkit.

Who are your clients?

We work with: -Private homeowners -Developers and real estate professionals -Religious organizations -Historic preservation societies -Municipalities and government agencies -Architects and general contractors Whether you're seeking designation, considering adaptive reuse, or applying for tax credits, we provide the historical foundation and strategic direction.

What kinds of buildings do you work with?

We’ve worked on everything from residential cottages and historic churches to commercial buildings and civic landmarks. We also engage with cultural landscapes and historic neighborhoods. Age alone doesn’t determine significance—we consider context, craftsmanship, and community value.

Do you only work in Charleston or South Carolina?

While we are proudly based in Charleston, South Carolina, we consult on preservation projects nationwide. Our methodology and impact scale to match the needs of the site, and we’re especially experienced with projects in historic districts, coastal towns, and culturally significant communities.

Do you help with landmark status or National Register listing?

Yes. We assist with every step of the designation process at the local, state, and federal levels. That includes: -Historical research -Documentation preparation Nomination writing -Regulatory navigation This designation can unlock access to tax credits, grants, and stronger protections.

Do you offer adaptive reuse consulting?

Yes. We believe preservation is not just about freezing history in time—it’s about making spaces viable for the future. We help clients transform historic buildings for new, relevant uses—whether that’s turning a church into a performing arts space or a warehouse into mixed-use retail.

Can you work with our architect or builder?

Absolutely. Our work complements theirs. We often provide historical analysis, design guidance, and documentation that informs architectural decisions, helps avoid costly missteps, and aligns with local preservation regulations.

What if my building isn’t ‘officially historic’?

Not every building needs a formal designation to be meaningful. We evaluate architectural character, historical context, and neighborhood value to help determine whether full preservation, partial salvage, or adaptive reuse makes the most sense. Every building has a story worth exploring.

How do you approach buildings with missing or limited documentation?

We specialize in uncovering lost stories. Using fieldwork, oral histories, and advanced archival research, we can often piece together a rich historical narrative—even when records are scarce or fragmented.

Can you help me prioritize what needs to be done first?

Yes. Our reports and preservation plans include prioritized recommendations, often organized by urgency (stabilization, critical repair, aesthetic enhancement). This helps clients plan restorations in stages—smartly and sustainably.

Do you handle the physical restoration work?

We do not act as general contractors, but we work closely with architects, preservation tradespeople, and builders to ensure their work aligns with best practices. We often serve as project advisors or historical consultants throughout the build phase.

How much do your services cost?

Fees depend on the scope, scale, and depth of services needed. We offer everything from standalone research projects to full Historic Structure Reports with phased Preservation Plans. We’re happy to provide custom proposals after an initial consultation.

Can you help me apply for grants or tax credits?

Yes. We provide research, documentation, and application assistance for historic preservation tax credits, façade easements, and grant programs at the local, state, and federal level. We also help clients ensure compliance with these programs over time.

Do you publish your research?

When appropriate—and with owner consent—we turn our findings into books, digital archives, exhibits, and educational content. This not only increases public awareness but helps preserve the cultural significance of a site long after the restoration is complete.

Do you help with public outreach or interpretive content?

Yes. We offer interpretive planning and can prepare historical signage, community programming, walking tours, and exhibit materials that help communities engage with local history in meaningful ways.

Do you advocate for policy change?

Yes. We’re deeply involved in preservation advocacy at the local and state levels. That includes supporting stronger protections for historic buildings, promoting preservation tax incentives, and educating decision-makers on the economic and cultural benefits of preservation.

Do you offer educational services or partnerships with schools?

We do. Part of our mission is to raise awareness and understanding of historic preservation among younger generations. We collaborate with schools, universities, and nonprofit organizations to create learning modules, guest lectures, and experiential opportunities.

What’s your philosophy on preservation?

We believe preservation is about stewardship, sustainability, and storytelling. It’s not about freezing buildings in time—it’s about respecting their past while adapting them for future relevance. Progress and preservation can—and must—work hand in hand.

How long does a typical HSR or Preservation Plan take?

Timelines vary, but here are general estimates: -Small Residential HSR: 4–6 weeks -Institutional or Civic HSR: 6–12 weeks -Preservation Plan: 8–16 weeks (can overlap with HSR timeline) We provide a clear project schedule at the outset, and we communicate throughout the process.

How do I get started?

Reach out via our Contact page or email us directly at info@progresspreservation.com. We’ll set up a time to talk through your goals and provide a clear proposal for next steps. Whether you’re looking to restore a historic home, reposition a civic landmark, or advocate for your community, we’re ready to help.

Let's Begin the Work of Preservation

Let's Begin the Work of Preservation

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