Business Details
37 Years
experience
Expert Historic Preservation & Architectural Services in Dallas
Norman Alston Architects has dedicated 36 years to demonstrating the transformative potential of historic preservation through award-winning restorations, renovations, and additions. Founded in 1989, our firm specializes in integrating historic buildings into modern urban landscapes while addressing economic, environmental, and cultural imperatives. With expertise in navigating complex preservation challenges, we serve as a trusted resource for clients seeking to revitalize structures ranging from grand urban landmarks to rural heritage sites. Our team combines deep technical knowledge with a commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring historic buildings meet contemporary needs without compromising their integrity. Recognized for leadership in the field, we have completed over 100 projects, including collaborations with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Texas Historical Commission.Our work extends beyond historic projects, applying preservation principles to adaptive reuse and urban redevelopment initiatives. As LEED Accredited Professionals and certified experts in federal preservation standards, we provide comprehensive services from initial planning to construction oversight. Our community engagement includes roles on the Fair Park First board and Dallas Landmarks Commission, reinforcing our dedication to cultural stewardship. With offices in Dallas, Texas, we continue to champion the value of historic architecture as a catalyst for community revitalization.
Services
Historic Preservation
Tax Credit Applications
Building Restoration
Adaptive Reuse
Urban Redevelopment
Master Planning
Condition Assessments
Historic Research
Sustainable Design
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We have 36 years of experience in historic preservation with over 100 completed projects.
- Our team includes LEED Accredited Professionals and certified experts in federal preservation standards.
- We simplify complex tax credit applications and regulatory compliance processes for clients.
- Our principal is a founding board member of Fair Park First, managing a National Historic Landmark.
- We combine technical expertise with community-focused design to revitalize urban and rural areas.
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (FAIA)
- LEED Accredited Professional
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
- California Office of Emergency Services Safety Assessment Program (SAP)
What people say
Award-winning restorations
Deep technical knowledge
Community-focused design
36 years of experience
LEED certified experts
Services
Historic Preservation
Our historic preservation services focus on maintaining architectural integrity while adapting buildings for modern use. We specialize in navigating complex regulatory requirements and tax credit programs. Our approach combines technical expertise with cultural sensitivity to ensure long-term viability of historic structures.
Tax Credit Applications
We guide clients through federal and state historic tax credit processes, preparing documentation and ensuring compliance with preservation standards. Our team has successfully completed numerous applications for diverse building types across multiple states.
Building Restoration
Our restoration expertise covers complete building rehabilitation, from exterior facades to interior historic elements. We use traditional techniques combined with modern technology to address deterioration while maintaining original design intent.
Adaptive Reuse
We transform underutilized buildings into functional spaces while preserving historic character. Our solutions balance modern requirements with architectural heritage, creating sustainable developments that respect community history and context.
Urban Redevelopment
Our urban redevelopment projects focus on integrating historic buildings into broader neighborhood revitalization efforts. We create master plans that enhance economic value while maintaining cultural identity and architectural heritage in urban environments.
People
Norman Alston
Principal
With 44 years of architectural experience, Norman founded the firm in 1989 to focus on historic preservation. He has led over 100 preservation projects and was elevated to AIA Fellow in 2019 for his contributions to the field.
Jean Alston
Principal - Administration
Bringing 43 years of nursing experience, Jean manages firm operations with medical precision. She transitioned to architecture administration after retirement, applying her organizational skills to support the firm's preservation mission.
Lindsay Akins
Architect
A licensed architect with over a decade of experience, Lindsay specializes in historic tax credits and complex project management. She works closely with clients through all design and construction phases, ensuring preservation standards are maintained.
Kim Thomason
Interior Design Associate
Kim combines interior design expertise with historic preservation knowledge. She focuses on maintaining period-appropriate finishes while meeting modern functionality requirements in restoration projects.
Questions
What types of projects does Norman Alston Architects specialize in?
We specialize in historic preservation, building restoration, adaptive reuse, and urban redevelopment projects for both public and private clients.
Can you help with historic tax credit applications?
Yes, we guide clients through the entire tax credit process, from initial design decisions to final documentation submission.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Dallas, we work across Texas and have completed projects in Oklahoma, New Mexico, and beyond.
How do you handle complex preservation challenges?
Our team combines technical expertise with regulatory knowledge to address structural, historical, and compliance issues effectively.
Are your services limited to historic buildings?
No, we apply preservation principles to modern projects as well, focusing on sustainable design and adaptive reuse solutions.
