Renovation, Restoration and Conversion of Historic Timber Buildings

Purpose

Renovating, restoring, and transforming historic buildings is a complex challenge involving many stakeholders. It’s about protecting heritage values, meeting current standards, and at the same time reducing environmental impact. By reusing and strengthening existing structures and architectural qualities, we save resources and foster a circular economy. RISE offers expertise comparable to the National Property Board’s house and palace architect consultants, as well as coordinating structural engineers—giving you flexible support throughout your building project. We combine architecture, heritage, materials science, construction (old and new), energy solutions, and measurement technology to provide holistic answers. With our guidance, you can make informed decisions about fire safety, moisture protection, acoustics, insulation, and energy efficiency—while also enhancing the building’s character.

Our services

We offer professional support for the renovation, restoration, energy renewal, and preservation of historic timber buildings. Our expertise includes:

• Building analysis and condition assessment—including monitoring the building’s behaviour over time.
• Architectural consultancy—adapting spaces to modern requirements while maintaining their historic identity.
• Structural advice—ensuring load-bearing capacity, stability, and reinforcement.
• Fire safety—solutions that meet today’s standards.
• Moisture safety—preventing damage and extending the building’s lifespan.
• Acoustics and vibration—creating comfort in older structures.
• Insulation and energy efficiency—reducing energy use and environmental impact.
• Material selection and restoration methods—sustainable, innovative, and historically accurate approaches.
• Life cycle perspective and circularity—to meet future demands.
• Integration of modern systems—without compromising the building’s unique character.

We can also act as house architect or coordinating structural engineer for projects needing overall responsibility.

How we deliver

Our support is tailored to the needs and complexity of your project. We offer:

• Participation in design meetings—as expert advisors or coordinating specialists.
• Workshops and training—for capacity building in your team.
• Pre-studies and risk analysis—providing assurance before renovation.
• Collaboration in development and innovation projects.
• Access to RISE’s knowledge base—publications, guidelines, and research results.

RISE has extensive experience working with older buildings—ranging from environments of cultural significance to commercial properties. By combining research, innovation, and hands-on expertise, we deliver solutions that work in practice, making your project both sustainable and future-ready.