
HISTORICaL DOCUMENTaTION
A new way to preserve our heritage
Our past is something to cherish and worth protecting. ARC provides knowledge and technical expertise to help document and preserve places of significant cultural and architectural value. We utilize tools such as advanced photo imagery, photogrammetry and 3D laser scanners to provide an accurate historical record of structures. Whether the documentation will serve to meet the needs of HABS (Historic American Buildings Survey) requirement, or perhaps to aide in the creation of an HBIM (Historic Building Information Model), ARC’s heritage documentation helps provide an accurate record of what exists and preserves and protects our collective past.

Benefits of Historical Documentation
Historic Register
Getting listed on the National Register of Historic Places can be of tremendous benefit to an owner including realizing tax incentives and increases in property value.
Laser Scanning
Laser scanning allows for very precise measurements of exceptional detail. The scan data becomes a digital record that can be used to protect and preserve our historic treasures.
Safe + Contact-free
Laser scanning allows for contact-free documentation leaving the architectural elements and artifacts untouched keeping them safe from being damaged during the documentation process.
HBIM (Historic BIM)
Unlike a typical BIM for construction, an HBIM can incorporate the many layers of a structure’s history for easy viewing based on the time period of interest.
Standards
Use of standards such as the National Parks Service HABS/HAER/HALS program ensure preservation meets the requirements for incorporation into the Library of Congress.
Methods of Preserving a Historical Structure
Preservation
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Preservation involves keeping any historical elements, components and artifacts in place in order to maintain how it currently exists.
Restoration
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Restoration involves restoring a building to how it existed at a specific point in time.
Reconstruction
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Reconstruction seeks to replace or re-create structures and / or elements that were damaged or lost. These can be reverse engineered from photographs and laser scans.
Rehabilitation
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Rehabilitation involves altering or adding to a property to maintain its current use, but still preserve and respect its historic nature.
Being that we had no drawings whatsoever for the pre-19th century structure, your ability to quickly and accurately document the building façade and plans was the most efficient and cost effective solution for us.
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- Lawrence C.
ARC has always provided me with the straight-forward, objective answers and takes the time to thoroughly answer all of my questions. I highly recommend ARC to provide documentation services."
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- Peggy Y.
More often than not, we can start faster than you can authorize us.
We pride ourselves in providing innovative solutions,
rapid response, high quality products and service, on time.
However, don't take our word for it.
U.S. Institute of Building Documentation/LOA Certified