Something Old/Something New: Integrating Historic Structures into Modern Building Projects

Beyond mere nostalgia, salvaging a local landmark creates continuity for a community that identifies itself with place. Integrating the old with the new seems to help residents accept the changes in scenery more easily. In a neighborhood like Chatham Arch, which has seen tremendous change in recent decades, salvaging even a small piece of the neighborhood’s past pays homage to its working-class roots.

Early in the design phase of Milhaus’ most recent groundbreaking project, Circa (617 N. College Avenue), they decided to retain the brick structure, formerly the location of Mitchel & Scott Machine Co., and integrate it into their modern design. It was an easy decision on two fronts explains Jake Dietrich, project developer at Milhaus, “first, the Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission considered it a “contributing structure” because it contributes to the historic feel of the area. Secondly, we knew that keeping it would help Circa mesh more easily with both the landscape and long-term residents.”

But blending the old with the new is not without its challenges. In the design phase, the original structure set the precedent for the look of the project. For example, using traditional red brick isn’t typical for Milhaus, but it will be used in new construction to match the older building. On the front end, additional preparation was needed. “Some of the materials used in the original structure aren’t considered safe for construction anymore,” explains Gregg Hendershot, vice president of construction at Milhaus, “so remediation of that building was needed, as well as adding more support to bolster the integrity of the structure. There were Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements that needed to be met, requiring that we make adjustments in the slab elevations as well.”

Prior to demolition, Milhaus faced a lot of unknowns, so they built more contingency costs into the budget to offset the surprises they would inevitably encounter. Dietrich says, “After demolition, we found that we had to restore one entire side of the brick structure and once we had a better idea of what we had to work with, the design had to go back to the drawing table for revisions.” Upon completion, the salvaged machine shop will serve as the central hub of Circa, with leasing office and amenities on the first floor, and several loft-style apartments on the second. Dietrich says, “We want people to identify with the historic part of our project. During demolition, we pulled out pipe fittings and pieces of machinery and have commissioned one-of-a-kind sculptures from local artists, Nick Allman and Kip Normand. Those will take up prominent residence as both interior and exterior art installations at Circa.”