Business Details
42 Years
experience
Your Trusted Historic Preservation Consultants in Manhattan
Since 1984, Higgins & Quasebarth has been a leader in historic preservation and rehabilitation of historic properties. Our multidisciplinary team combines expertise in architectural history, conservation, and regulatory compliance to deliver tailored solutions for private, corporate, and institutional clients. With decades of experience navigating complex preservation challenges, we specialize in integrating technical, aesthetic, and regulatory requirements to ensure the longevity of historic structures. Our work spans landmark designations, tax credit projects, and restoration efforts, reflecting our commitment to preserving architectural heritage while meeting modern needs. We pride ourselves on fostering collaboration between stakeholders, government agencies, and preservation authorities to achieve exceptional outcomes.Our team's deep understanding of historic building materials and construction techniques informs every project, from initial planning to final execution. Recognized for our thought leadership, we contribute to industry publications and educational programs while maintaining active roles in preservation organizations. Our dedication to excellence has earned us a reputation as trusted advisors in the preservation community. We approach each project with a focus on transparency, technical rigor, and respect for historical integrity. This combination of experience, expertise, and passion for preservation makes us a preferred partner for clients seeking to protect and revitalize historic properties.
Services
Historic Preservation
Building Rehabilitation
Tax Credit Consulting
Landmark Designation
Restoration Services
Regulatory Compliance
Heritage Documentation
Conservation Planning
Adaptive Reuse
Historic Research
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of experience in historic preservation and rehabilitation projects
- Our team includes architectural historians, conservators, and regulatory experts
- We've completed over 100 tax credit preservation projects nationwide
- Our principals have authored industry-standard preservation publications
- We maintain active roles in leading preservation organizations and educational institutions
Services
Historic Preservation
Our historic preservation services combine technical expertise with regulatory knowledge to protect architectural heritage. We conduct comprehensive assessments of historic buildings, develop preservation plans, and navigate landmark designation processes. Our team works with clients to maintain historical integrity while implementing modern updates that meet current building codes and sustainability standards.
Building Rehabilitation
Specializing in building rehabilitation, we restore historic structures while preserving their architectural character. Our services include material analysis, structural assessment, and implementation of preservation techniques that extend building lifespans. We help clients maximize tax incentives through compliant rehabilitation projects that balance historical accuracy with functional modernization.
Tax Credit Consulting
We provide expert guidance on historic tax credit programs for commercial and residential projects. Our consultants help clients navigate federal and state tax credit requirements, prepare documentation packages, and coordinate with preservation authorities. Our track record includes successful tax credit applications for diverse property types across multiple jurisdictions.
Landmark Designation
Our landmark designation services help property owners achieve official recognition for historically significant buildings. We conduct thorough historical research, prepare nomination packages, and manage the approval process with local, state, and national preservation agencies. Our expertise ensures compliance with preservation standards while protecting property owners' interests.
Restoration Services
We offer comprehensive restoration services for historic building components and materials. Our specialists assess damage, develop repair strategies, and implement conservation techniques that maintain original construction methods. From masonry restoration to architectural detailing, we preserve structural integrity while addressing modern functionality requirements.
People
Bill Higgins
Principal
With over 40 years in historic preservation, Bill brings expertise in regulatory review, conservation, and tax incentives. He previously directed New York State's restoration efforts and lectures on preservation practices.
Elise Quasebarth
Principal
Elise specializes in cultural compliance and historic tax credit projects. She has directed numerous preservation initiatives for private and nonprofit clients, focusing on regulatory standards and landmark reviews.
Ward Dennis
Principal
Ward combines architectural conservation expertise with planning knowledge. He teaches at Pratt Institute and co-authored technical publications on sandstone maintenance while serving preservation organizations.
Erin Rulli
Principal
Erin manages complex preservation projects with expertise in architectural history and regulatory compliance. She previously handled property management for NYC historic landmarks and brings practical field experience.
Cas Stachelberg
Principal
Cas directs restoration projects across multiple jurisdictions. He specializes in technical assessments and regulatory reviews, with published works on historic construction methods and preservation techniques.
Questions
What types of historic preservation projects do you handle?
We work on diverse projects including landmark designations, tax credit rehabilitations, structural restorations, and regulatory compliance for commercial, residential, and institutional properties.
How can I determine if my property qualifies for historic tax credits?
Our experts analyze property history, architectural significance, and location factors to assess tax credit eligibility and guide clients through the application process.
What services do you offer for landmark designation?
We prepare historical research, develop nomination packages, and manage the approval process with local, state, and national preservation agencies for landmark designation.
How do you balance historic preservation with modern building requirements?
We integrate preservation standards with contemporary needs through careful material selection, code-compliant modifications, and adaptive reuse strategies that maintain historical integrity.
What experience do you have with NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission?
Our team has extensive experience managing projects through the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission review process for both preservation and new construction initiatives.
Can you help with federal preservation regulations?
Yes, we assist with Section 106 reviews, National Register determinations, and other federal preservation requirements for projects involving government agencies or funding.
