Stephen Ortado fitting a rafter at the Lincoln Cottage.

DUMB LOOKS, CORRECT ANSWERS AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION CONSULTING

We have seen it too often to be surprised anymore:   budgets and schedules dislocated by poor historic preservation design. The usual scenario is that we receive an invitation to bid on plans which can't be done for the amount budgeted or which won't produce the result intended. The ensuing disruption hurts both the project and the reputations of those involved. We suggest that we be consulted early in the design process, before momentum builds for an ineffective solution.

For thirty years, Stephen Ortado has been consulting with owners and architects on efficient historic preservation design. As consultants who are also contractors, it is always a delicate matter when to charge for advice. We are, of course, always willing to share our extensive field knowledge with both owners and architects on an informal basis. Beyond that, we are in a similar situation to that of an architectural blacksmith of our acquaintance who keeps the following pricing structure posted prominently by his busy work area:

1. Answers, $1.00
2. Correct Answers, $10.00
3. Dumb Looks Are Still Free

To contact our Principal, Stephen Ortado, by email, click here or call our office at (202) 437-7567. We are glad to respond to your letters sent to: