Architectural History Studies
State and Federal laws require that developers, planners, and engineers consider whether their projects will affect historic buildings, structures, or landscapes. If a project affects a building over 45 years old, it may need evaluation to determine whether it is eligible for the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR) or the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).
Our architectural history studies combine field recording of a building’s features with detailed land use historical research to support significance evaluations. Our experience ranges from individual buildings to historic landscapes and complex districts, and includes residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
If significant buildings are affected by a project, mitigation may be necessary. Our mitigation experience includes recording for the Historic American Buildings Survey and Historic American Engineering Record, as well as creative mitigation solutions including salvage, interpretation, and reuse.
Featured Projects
Ferry Point Pier, Miller-Knox Regional Shoreline
A/HC prepared a history and evaluation of the Santa Fe Railroad’s former ferry terminal at Point Richmond. Built in 1899, this early intermodal shipping terminal completed the Santa Fe’s intercontinental line and helped fuel the development of Richmond.
nike missile bases
The Nike program was the US Army’s first surface-to-air missile system, with 12 installations in the Bay Area. In 2019, A/HC recorded one of the surviving Nike radar installations and prepared a detailed site history
Big Creek Powerhouses
A/HC authored in-depth histories of Southern California Edison’s pioneering Big Creek hydroelectric powerhouses in Fresno County. Constructed between 1913 and 1923, the powerhouses were among the largest in the world, set records for generation and transmission of electricity, and played an important role in the development of Los Angeles.
Fremont High School, Oakland
A/HC completed a historic architectural evaluation of the Fremont High School Campus before its 2019 renovations. We identified the parts of the campus belonging to the original 1920s school, and developed recommendations for preservation and adaptive reuse.