Guest Contributor – John Yunker, General Superintendent at Skanska
Historic renovations demand reverence, precision, and creative integration of modern systems. In Nashville, Skanska has restored some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the War Memorial Building, Legislative Plaza, the Cordell Hull State Office Building, and multiple Vanderbilt University facilities, with another major downtown project slated for 2026.
“Our goal is to preserve Nashville’s heritage while ensuring these buildings meet today’s standards of safety, accessibility, and efficiency.” —
A Tailored Approach
Historic renovations differ fundamentally from new construction. Each project begins with a detailed plan that addresses:
- Structural integrity: Modifications must support modern use without compromising the original framework.
- Unknown conditions: Many historic buildings lack accurate documentation and may have undergone multiple renovations. Mapping existing conditions and awarding early design-assist packages helps anticipate surprises and align stakeholders early.
- System integration: Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing upgrades are coordinated to protect legacy finishes and ensure seamless integration, often requiring investigative demolition and creative routing.
This collaborative approach ensures that each renovation respects history while meeting modern expectations.
Balancing Preservation and Performance
To preserve historic aesthetics while improving performance, Skanska employs:
- Early mock-ups to test materials and finishes
- Dew point analysis to guide insulation strategies
- Robust testing plans and hazardous material studies
At the War Memorial Building, Skanska is recreating decorative terracotta and carved stone elements, restoring large bronze doors, and extending elevators to meet ADA requirements—all while safeguarding more than 20 historic monuments, including legally protected pieces such as the Women of the Civil War statue.
Specialized subcontractors in bronze, plaster, and window restoration are engaged early to ensure accurate budgeting and scheduling. Close collaboration with architects and owners helps navigate preservation requirements and guide restoration decisions, ensuring ADA compliance while maintaining the integrity and prominence of historic elements.
Technology That Honors Tradition
Modern technology has transformed historic renovations. Where teams once relied on manual measurements and hand-drawn plans, today’s projects benefit from:
- Laser scanning, which captures above-ceiling conditions and incorporates existing elements into the design, and LiDAR for precise 3D mapping. These technologies help reduce delays and identify coordination challenges early.
- Digital workflows and mobile platforms to streamline communication and documentation
- Smart sensors to monitor structural health and environmental conditions for long-term preservation
“Advances in technology help us safeguard historic structures while meeting today’s performance standards,” said Dennis Georgatos, Vice President – Account Manager for Skanska USA Building. “They ensure we can respect tradition while safely delivering projects that are efficient and sustainable.”
At the Cordell Hull State Office Building, laser scanning uncovered discrepancies in existing models, reducing costly change orders and strengthening client partnerships. During tunnel excavation near the State Capitol, vibration sensors and seismic gauges ensured no disruption to surrounding structures—over six months and 109 blasts, there were no lost-time injuries or significant impacts to downtown activity.
Sustainability Through Preservation
“Historic renovations offer a meaningful path toward sustainability, by extending the life of existing buildings and reducing environmental impact, we conserve resources and keep Nashville’s heritage alive.” said Adam Hicks, Vice President of Preconstruction for Skanska USA Building.
For example, tearing down a building can generate over 150 pounds of waste per square foot, while new builds add additional material waste. In contrast, restoration projects produce far less debris and require fewer raw materials.
Many older buildings are also surprisingly energy efficient. Studies show that commercial buildings constructed before 1920 often use less energy per square foot than those built in later decades. Preservation not only honors architectural heritage but also contributes to long-term environmental goals.
Honoring the Past, Shaping Nashville’s Future
Historic renovations are investments in cultural identity and community resilience. By blending advanced technology with respect for tradition, Nashville’s landmarks remain vibrant, functional, and inspiring for generations. Preservation extends the life of existing assets, reduces environmental impact, and strengthens the character of neighborhoods, creating long-term value for clients and the city alike. These projects prove that honoring the past can be a powerful strategy for shaping the future of Nashville’s built environment.
To learn more visit Skanska’s Nashville Office website by clicking the clink (here).
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