Frazier Associates [ Feasibility Studies ]

Feasibility Studies

Property owners, local governments, and non-profit foundations often wonder how to best revitalize an older, underutilized building. Often, the answer is to first conduct a feasibility study before starting any construction. These studies quickly establish if rehabilitation of an existing building is possible, practical, and cost-effective. They are a valuable first step in evaluating a building's future potential and in creating a strategy for its reuse.

This preliminary step provides a sound basis for determining your budget and for securing project financing. A study typically consists of:

Creating a set of "as built" architectural plans of the building

Working with the owner to determine new uses that fit the building

Assessing the current condition and functionality of the building

Conducting a building code analysis based on the proposed uses

Drawing up a conceptual schematic design for the building

Outlining a scope of work that defines the construction tasks

Developing a project budget and construction schedule

Determining how tax credit incentives can aid historic projects

Identifying other possible project funding sources

A study of the Edinburg Middle School explored reusing the school as the new home for a Cultural Arts Alliance in Shenandoah County, Virginia.

Alleghany Building, Clifton Forge VA
After completing a feasibility study, a local non-profit rehabilitated the Alleghany Building in Clifton Forge, Virginia into a senior center with affordable housing above.

Paxton House is a National Register property prominently sited in Glen Maury Park, Buena Vista, Virginia. Following completion of a feasibility and stabilization plan, the house is now being rehabilitated for cultural and community events.

RR Smith Center for History & Art, Staunton, Virginia. This 25,000 square foot building is being rehabilitated into a new home for Staunton Augusta Art Center, the Augusta County Historical Society and The Historic Staunton Foundation. Shown below are before and after pictures.
Sorely neglected, the building was vacant for decades.		Rendering of improvements from the feasibility study.		Construction is being phased to meet financing.