Expert: Paul S. Brown, AIA - 5/2/2006

Question
Hi Paul,

I am building a new colonial style home with an attached barn. My hope is to make these buildings look like they've been here for 200 or so years. Do you know of where I might go to have my plans reviewed for details such as eave trims, water table, etc, to maintain a traditional sort of feel?

Thanks, Kevin  

Answer
Hi Kevin:
What a cool sounding project!!
I'm not sure what part of the country you are in, but I would advise that you contact the local Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and get a list of members and their specialties.  Then, select 3 or 4 that list historic preservation as part of their offerrings, and call each of them and discuss what you want.  You should be able to find someone who will do this on an hourly basis, and the charges should not be too high.
My own advice:  if you really want it too look old, in addition to picking the right materials and period detailing, you will need to coach the carpenters to install things non-level, non-square, and non-true.  Obviously, joints still need to be tight and everything well and solidly constructed and watertight.  But old buildings settle over time and to get a really 200-year old effect, you need to mimic that.  It doesn't need to be drastic, like a movie set or Disneyland effect, just a bit out of alignment.  It will be tough to convince your carpenters to do this, as they are trained to take pride in the straight and true approach.
Good luck, sounds like fun!
PB