As Historic Preservation Month comes to a close, we sat down with Unico’s in-house preservation expert, Tom Taylor, to talk about the challenges of retrofitting HVAC systems into older homes and why The Unico System has become a trusted solution for preservation projects.
Tom has spent more than 30 years with Unico, serving in roles ranging from PR to historic home coordination. His deep appreciation for historic architecture, combined with decades of industry experience, gives him a unique perspective on preserving older spaces while bringing them modern comfort.
Here’s what he had to say.
Why Historic Preservation Matters
- From your perspective, why is historic preservation important today?
Tom: To truly understand our present and map our future, we MUST understand our past. Preserving places and structures - whether in a historical or design context - allows us to "time travel" - to literally step into the spaces and buildings of the past to experience them in the context of the now.
- Over the years, have you seen attitudes toward preserving historic buildings change? If so, how?
Tom: Every generation brings their own perspective to preservation, so it's only natural that as people change, preservation does too. Thankfully, there are longstanding organizations like the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Frank Lloyd Wright Conservancy and others who are dedicated to preserving historic and architecturally significant structures for generations yet to come.
The HVAC Challenge in Older Homes
- What makes HVAC installation especially challenging in historic homes and buildings?
Tom: Preservationists must walk a fine line, especially when it comes to public and shared spaces. They have the challenge of making spaces comfortable and useful by contemporary standards while still preserving historic structural and aesthetic design elements. HVAC makes that difficult because it must be retrofitted into spaces that were never designed for it - because it simply didn't exist in that space's original timeline.
- How does The Unico System help solve problems that traditional HVAC systems often create in preservation projects?
Tom: Simply put, it fits where traditional HVAC systems can't, avoiding the structural disruption "shoehorning" traditional systems into a building requires. Additionally, it's more aesthetically pleasing than bulky dirty rectangular diffusers or room-by-room "wall wart" systems. As an added benefit, The Unico System also provides superior comfort and energy efficiency.
- Are there specific architectural styles or historic properties where The Unico System works particularly well?
Tom: The fact that it can fit into the smallest of spaces means that there is no particular architectural style that cannot benefit from The Unico System. From Colonial and Federalist to Victorian and Mid Century Modern - retrofitting Unico will not disrupt the original design and aesthetic elements of your home.
Why Preservationists Choose Unico
- Can you share a memorable historic preservation project you’ve worked on or heard about involving The Unico System?
Tom: Three structures in Washington, DC involving President Lincoln: his cottage, the retreat where he took respite during the Civil War; Ford's Theater - the site of his assassination; and the Peterson Home, across from the theater where Lincoln died. We're very proud that visitors who come to soak up the history of these iconic places can do so in absolute comfort.
- What are some common mistakes contractors or homeowners make when retrofitting HVAC into older buildings?
Tom: "Shoehorning" a system in - e.g. dropping ceilings, building chases, soffits, or bulkheads to conceal ductwork. None of this is necessary with The Unico System.
- How do preservationists typically react when they learn about The Unico System?
Tom: They love it! Because of the challenges presented by conventional or stop-gap HVAC solutions, preservationists typically cringe when it comes to these mechanical add-ons. But once they learn of The Unico System, they understand there's a way to let comfort fit in.
- In your opinion, what features of The Unico System are most valuable for maintaining the integrity of historic interiors?
Tom: The system's smaller indoor unit, duct size and unobtrusive diffusers that can blend into any decor.
Unico’s Role in Historic Preservation
- Looking back on your years with Unico, what role do you think the company has played in the historic preservation space?
Tom: We're very proud of the fact that we are the only HVAC system recommended by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
- Is there anything else you think people should understand about preserving older buildings and integrating modern systems into them?
Tom: Only that there IS a way to preserve historic structures while providing 21st century comfort. The Unico System is that way.
Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, architect, engineer, or builder working on historic property, The Unico System makes it possible to preserve architectural integrity without sacrificing comfort.
Not sure how a high-efficiency HVAC system could fit into your project? Unico offers a free design service to help you visualize how the system can work within your space.
The Unico System | Comfort Fit For Your Projects
