Business Details
Expert Historic Preservation Architects in Lexington, MA
McGinley Kalsow & Associates is an award-winning architectural and planning firm dedicated to the restoration and renovation of historic buildings and structures. Our expertise lies in preserving architectural and cultural heritage through meticulous restoration, compatible new additions, and revitalization of historic areas. With a philosophy rooted in fidelity to original design intent, we collaborate closely with clients to integrate modern systems while preserving character-defining features. Our team includes in-house specialists in materials, finishes, and period construction, ensuring excellence in every project. We serve educational institutions, religious organizations, municipalities, and private clients, delivering solutions that balance historical integrity with contemporary functionality.Our work spans National Register Properties and Historic Districts, emphasizing sustainable design and cost-effective preservation strategies. Recognized for innovation and technical proficiency, we have completed landmark projects such as the Longfellow Bridge restoration and adaptive reuse of historic educational facilities. Our principals maintain active involvement in every project phase, guaranteeing design excellence and adherence to preservation standards. Committed to advancing the field, we contribute to industry organizations like Preservation Mass and uphold rigorous professional certifications. Through decades of experience, we have established ourselves as leaders in preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
Services
Historic Preservation
Architectural Restoration
Adaptive Reuse
Preservation Planning
Feasibility Studies
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined experience in National Register Property restoration
- Our in-house materials science experts ensure historically accurate renovations
- We implement sustainable design strategies that reduce long-term maintenance costs
- Our principals maintain direct project oversight from concept to completion
- We hold active memberships in preservation certification programs like LEED
Associations and certifications
- LEED Green Associate
Services
Historic Preservation
Specialized conservation of historically significant buildings through meticulous restoration techniques. Our approach maintains original design intent while integrating modern systems for functional longevity. Projects include National Historic Landmarks and structures within protected Historic Districts.
Architectural Restoration
Comprehensive rehabilitation of historic structures using period-accurate materials and methods. We restore character-defining features while implementing accessibility upgrades and contemporary building systems to meet 21st-century requirements.
Adaptive Reuse
Transforming obsolete buildings into functional modern spaces while preserving historical elements. This includes converting historic educational and municipal buildings into updated facilities that maintain cultural significance.
Preservation Planning
Strategic development of preservation frameworks for public and private clients. Our planning services ensure compliance with local, state, and federal historic preservation standards while optimizing project feasibility.
Feasibility Studies
Technical evaluations assessing restoration options, cost projections, and regulatory compliance. These studies form the basis for funding applications, long-term maintenance planning, and sustainable preservation strategies.
People
Wendall Kalsow
Principal and President
AIA-registered architect with expertise in historic structure assessment and adaptive reuse. Leads major restoration projects for National Register Properties while serving on the Preservation Mass board and Lexington Historical Commission.
Carmen Ramos-Kalsow
Vice President of Business Development
Manages client relations and project team assembly with background in organizational consulting. Oversees contract management and office administration while developing strategic business partnerships for complex preservation projects.
Questions
What types of historic buildings do you specialize in restoring?
We focus on National Register Properties, Historic District structures, and buildings with cultural significance including educational institutions, municipal buildings, and religious facilities.
How do you balance historical accuracy with modern requirements?
Our approach preserves character-defining features while integrating contemporary systems through careful material selection and innovative design solutions that maintain structural integrity.
Can you handle both interior and exterior restoration projects?
Yes, we provide comprehensive restoration services for both interior and exterior elements including finishes, structural components, and architectural details.
Do you work with both public and private sector clients?
We serve a diverse client base including municipalities, educational institutions, religious organizations, and private property owners across New England and select Northeast locations.
What preservation certifications do your team hold?
Our team includes LEED Green Associate-certified professionals and members of preservation organizations like Preservation Mass with expertise in federal and state compliance standards.
