do we have to demolish or renovate a historical building?

Question

demolished or renovation

Answer 1

Renovate, if it really has any history. If it is "historic" just because it is old, then demolish.

Answer 2

Your question does not include important relevant information.

First, if this "historic" building is on local, state or national registries of either landmarks or historic structures, then there are specific laws regulating ANYTHING done to the structure. And it is almost impossible to just demolish it.

Second, if the structure is not in any of the registers, but holds either considerable local architectural, cultural, social, or political significance, then it is very wise to pay attention to those factors before deciding to renovate or demolish. Although renovations - particularly those that sustain the historic features of the structure in and out - can be quite costly, the effort often improves the property value significantly, and can pay benefits such as higher rent values and improved customer traffic - assuming, of course, that you refer to a commercial property.

I do not know whether you are in the US or not - most of my comments apply to the US. In other countries, "historic" properties may or may not be affected by various laws and you should find out.

In all events, the starting place is your community public offices that regulate building activity.

I also strongly recommend that you visit the local historical society, or if there isn't one, the library, for some background on the property and a test of community attitude toward it.

In the US there is a VERY bad habit to keep in mind: We tear down historic buildings, and then put up plaques telling passersby there used to be an interesting and significant place where the parking lot stands today.

Answer 3

There are varying degrees of laws that apply to historical buildings. Most important of which, is it in an official historic district? Landmark status in historic districts dictate that all buildings be of the design ofthe period, so if you must demolish, you have to rebuild to strict standards ser by the committee. If you own a building that is historic and listed as such, but outside an historic district, you can pretty much do what you want with it.

Answer 4

Restore to the original state.