Business Details
50 Years
experience
Trusted Historic Preservation Architects Minneapolis
Founded in 1976, MacDonald & Mack Architects has established itself as a leader in historic preservation and architectural conservation. Our firm combines decades of experience with cutting-edge forensic investigation methods to address the unique challenges of existing buildings. We specialize in restoration, adaptive reuse, and preservation planning, serving clients nationwide from our Minneapolis headquarters. Our team of licensed architects and preservationists meets the Secretary of the Interior's rigorous professional qualifications standards. As a certified woman-owned business, we prioritize sustainable practices and community engagement, ensuring historic structures endure for future generations.Our work spans diverse eras and building types, from 19th-century churches to modernist landmarks. We approach each project with meticulous research, collaborative problem-solving, and a commitment to maintaining architectural integrity while meeting contemporary needs. Our expertise in historic tax credits and legacy grants helps clients maximize financial resources for preservation projects. With a people-first workplace culture, we balance professional excellence with work-life harmony, reflecting our founders' original vision of responsible stewardship for both buildings and relationships.
Services
Historic Preservation
Building Restoration
Adaptive Reuse
Forensic Investigation
Archival Research
Historic Structure Reports
Preservation Planning
Tax Credit Consulting
Modern Era Preservation
Worship Space Conservation
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of specialized experience in historic preservation architecture
- Our team meets rigorous Secretary of the Interior professional qualifications standards
- We implement advanced forensic investigation methods using thermal cameras and drones
- Certified woman-owned business with demonstrated commitment to diversity in architecture
- Recipient of Minnesota's highest architectural honor, the AIA Minnesota Gold Medal
Associations and certifications
- AIA Minnesota
- NCARB
- Secretary of the Interior's Standards Professional Qualifications
Services
Historic Preservation
We specialize in preserving architectural heritage through meticulous research and modern conservation techniques. Our team applies advanced forensic methods to diagnose structural issues while maintaining historical integrity. With expertise spanning multiple eras, we help buildings meet contemporary needs without compromising their historic character.
Building Restoration
Our restoration services return buildings to their original architectural glory using archival research and material analysis. We employ both traditional craftsmanship and modern technology to address deterioration while maintaining historical accuracy. This includes paint analysis, window restoration, and structural reinforcement using period-appropriate materials and methods.
Adaptive Reuse
We transform historic structures for modern functionality while preserving their architectural essence. Our approach maintains character-defining features during conversions to new uses like residential lofts, cultural centers, or commercial spaces. We ensure code compliance while respecting original design elements and construction techniques.
Forensic Investigation
We conduct comprehensive structural assessments using thermal imaging, moisture meters, and drone technology. Our investigations identify hidden issues in historic buildings through material testing and archival research. This scientific approach helps develop targeted repair strategies that address root causes of deterioration.
Tax Credit Consulting
We guide clients through complex state and federal tax credit programs for historic preservation. Our expertise ensures compliance with Secretary of the Interior standards while maximizing financial benefits. We prepare documentation and coordinate with agencies to streamline the approval process for preservation projects.
People
Angela Wolf Scott
CEO/President and Principal Architect
Licensed architect with expertise in historic preservation and sustainability. Recipient of AIA Young Architect Awards at state and national levels. Holds advanced degrees in architecture and historic preservation from University of Colorado and University of Minnesota.
Todd Grover
CFO/Vice President and Principal Architect
Specialist in modern movement architecture with licenses in four states. Adjunct professor at University of Minnesota and Docomomo board member. Completed preservation work on mid-century structures across the Midwest.
Stuart MacDonald
Principal Emeritus
Co-founder with 45+ years experience in American building technology. Former National Park Service architect with expertise in HABS/HAER documentation. Holds licenses in Minnesota and Illinois.
Robert Mack
Principal Emeritus
Co-founder and AIA College of Fellows member. Developed preservation standards while teaching at University of Minnesota. Holds advanced degree in building conservation from Heriot-Watt University.
Madelyn Miller
Architect and Preservation Consultant
Licensed architect with focus on community involvement in heritage designation. Serves on Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission. Holds dual master's degrees in architecture and heritage conservation from University of Minnesota.
Questions
What types of buildings do you specialize in preserving?
We work with diverse building types including historic homes, churches, civic buildings, and modernist structures from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Can you help with historic tax credit applications?
Yes, we specialize in navigating both state and federal historic tax credit programs with extensive experience in documentation and compliance.
How do you approach building investigations?
We use advanced technology like thermal imaging and drones combined with traditional methods to diagnose structural issues in historic buildings.
Are you certified as a woman-owned business?
Yes, we are certified as a Women Business Enterprise (WBE) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) in Minnesota.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Minneapolis, we work on preservation projects nationwide with particular expertise in Midwest architectural history.
How do you balance preservation with modern needs?
Our adaptive reuse approach integrates contemporary functionality while maintaining historic character through careful material selection and design.
