Forensic Architects & Building Analysis

Forensic Architects & Building Analysis

The team at Pascal Architects has decades of experience providing architectural design services across the country. With an emphasis on historic preservation and the adaptive reuse of large-scale commercial buildings, our firm specializes in forensic architecture and building analysis to better understand the underlying causes of building envelope defects, system defects, and code compliance issues.

An Investigative Approach to Architecture

Our team includes licensed architects, engineers, and designers who conduct extensive research and field studies to get to the root of your structure’s problems and develop proactive solutions that will improve the efficiency of the building while preserving the original function of its design. Before you can begin the renovation process for historic and other existing buildings, an analysis must be performed to understand the flaws in the existing structure, as well as the state of the mechanical, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life safety systems. This vital information will help determine how to most effectively restore the systems and structure to meet your new vision for the building.

Often, buildings have undergone many iterations of renovations. By taking an investigative approach, we can restore the original elements that give the building its character and historic value, while complying with local requirements and international safety codes. Forensic research can also be used in legal proceedings to determine premises liability and assess if the professional standard of care was met. Our team will work proactively to give you the information you need to make a strategic decision for:

  • Understanding why a building is not functioning as efficiently as it should
  • Investigating a structure for legal reasons
  • Assessing the value of a building that you are considering for purchase

In addition to forensic research, our building materials analysis process enables our team to understand the original materials used in a building’s design to source authentic materials. Our deep connections in the field allow us to work directly with vendors around the world to restore the original beauty and integrity of a design.

Our Experience Serving Commercial Clients

Pascal Architects has completed many projects that involve construction management and architectural design by applying this method of building analysis, including work in both the private and public sectors. Our experience includes case studies that feature the forensic analysis of the historic Ritz-Carlton Hotel in New Orleans, in which we addressed issues with the life safety systems, mechanical and electrical systems, interior air quality, and the building envelope. We have also worked with asset owners to address energy conservation challenges and poor indoor air quality caused by an undersized or oversized system, as well as adaptive reuse projects for hotels and restaurants.

Every building has a story to share. Through forensic analysis, Pascal Architects can restore the integrity of a complex structure by both preserving its history and adapting it to meet modern demands. To learn more about our process, call our office directly at 504-304-3625. You can also learn more about our firm’s philosophy and explore our portfolio of completed architecture projects in New Orleans and New York.