the art of restoration
The City of Charleston led the entire country in historic preservation by designating the first Historic District in 1931. Meadors is fortunate to be based in a city with a strong commitment to America's architectural heritage. It is a vital aspect of everyday life in the Holy City and an exciting context in which to practice the art of restoration.
Each new project provides a myriad of opportunities for discovery. Our extensive research is the first step in understanding the building. How was it modified over the decades? Why were changes made and how do they impact the structure today? What were the materials used over the years and how can we restore or replicate them? We combine our research with our knowledge of history and the latest technologies, such as paint microscopy and mortar analysis, to answer these questions.
Our design team then begins the process of realizing a vision of how to bring together our clients' needs for living in the 21st century with the strict adherence to the integrity of the building's historic fabric and architecture.
Along the way, the buildings themselves begin to unfold the story as well. Masonry pockets covered over for generations might tell us how the framing once looked. As the evidence is discovered, we must be prepared to respond and be flexible enough to take advantage of the opportunities that allow the vision to evolve.
Our extensive team of craftspeople can then restore or recreate any of the elements integral to that vision, or incorporate new construction in ways that honor the past.
meadors community engagement
Homeless Awareness Design Installation--July 2016
homeless awareness design installation
Meadors created this Installation to maintain awareness of the people experiencing homelessness in our community. We have used the skills of our six workshops to design and digitally fabricate the installation. The 430 figure-cut outs that make up the installation throughout the Charleston area represent the approximate number of those experiencing homelessness in our community based on the last official count. The cut-outs represent one of the issues the homeless experience – the majority of people look right through them.
Homelessness is not something that can be completely eradicated; however, a defined and established path should be in place so that homelessness is temporary and not repeated.
With sustained help from the community, the many Organizations, whose mission is to help the homeless, will be able to create a sustainable system whereby homelessness is temporary and the goal of functional zero is achieved.
We would like to thank Mayor Tecklenburg for his dedication to helping the Homeless and his enthusiasm and support for this Installation. Without his support, this could not have happened.
Visit the Charleston Installation Website HERE
Visit the National installation website here