Preserving buildings is inherently energy efficient. If the bones of the building are stable, the skin of the building maintained, and the interior finishes enhanced, it is much less disruptive to the environment to restore a building than to demolish it and build anew. How do we evolve from a “disposable” architecture to a population that respects the long-term fix rather than the 5- or 20-year option? We as architects can encourage building owners to not only restore the buildings but to understand that the original materials are good not only for authenticity purposes but also for environmental purposes. Architects have a custodial responsibility to our heritage and the environment, and the combination of preservation and green technology is a perfect match.

    Learning objectives:

• Discuss how decisions are made both on preservation designs and techniques of restoration using a green and long-term approach to new design and preservation
• Identify material options for building envelope restorations that are environmentally sensitive
• Review the benefits of maintaining the existing materials to promote the long-term repair to the building rather than the short-term fix