Not only is historic preservation critical in maintaining the integrity of our urban fabric, it also offers one of the most effective means of reducing the carbon footprint of the architecture industry. To learn more about the importance and role of preservation architects, Archinect connected with architect and preservationist Angel Ayón of AYON Studio. 

As new projects continue to be built, cities around the globe are filled with landmark buildings and historical structures that add to the area's rich architectural history. However, thanks to preservationists, these structures are presented with new possibilities such as adaptive reuse and historic preservation building techniques. This week our team highlights the importance of historic preservation and an open job opportunity for a preservation architect from AYON Studio.

AYON Studio is led by Cuban-born architect and preservation advocate Ayón, author of Reglazing Modernism, the first book on conservation of Modern window walls and curtain walls. His practice devises sustainable solutions that ensure future viability and create value. The New York City-based studio is MBE certified for work with city and state agencies. 

Ayón shared with Archinect that the position is a "unique opportunity to work on a variety of existing properties, most of them designated Landmarks, to prepare them for a new life cycle where historic urban contexts, cultural significance, and sustainability play a meaningful role." 

As a service-focused studio, they offer extensive knowledge of "architecture, design, engineering, historic preservation, and materials conservation to ensure a structure's new life is even better than its previous one." 

The open position focuses on responsibilities that include "documentation, conditions assessments and design of interventions on a variety of existing buildings." The position will also involve the candidate to work directly with Ayón and the rest of the Studio's staff as they assess "the nature and condition of existing properties (mostly designated Landmarks or Landmark-quality buildings); developing design solutions and preparing Construction Documents for interior renovations and exterior repairs; assisting with filing the proposed work with regulatory agencies (LPC, DOB, SHPO, etc.)" to name a few.

"Nothing could be more important in this day and age than ensuring that the existing building stock is retrofitted sensitively and creatively, not only to preserve it for future generations but also to help devise a more sustainable, equitable, and diverse future," adds Ayón. "Preservation Architects are uniquely qualified to do this. It's one of the reasons AYON Studio is growing. So we're looking for solid candidates who share our long-term vision and can help us achieve it."

Nothing could be more important on this day and age than ensuring that the existing building stock is retrofitted sensitively and creatively, not only to preserve it for future generations but also to help devise a more sustainable, equitable, and diverse future. - Angel Ayón

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