HISTORIC PRESERVATION SERVICES

For over 50 years, E L Habetz Builders has preserved and restored historic commercial buildings across South Louisiana.

Our Approach

Respect the Past. Elevate the Craft.

Historic renovation requires more than technical skill—it demands cultural sensitivity, attention to detail, and an understanding of what makes each structure meaningful. Our team works closely with preservation architects, historical boards, and community leaders to ensure every renovation honors the original design while adapting for modern use.

Whether it’s a century-old courthouse, a neighborhood church, or a historic commercial building, we approach each project with precision, respect, and passion. We balance structural integrity, aesthetic accuracy, and practical functionality, ensuring these historic buildings continue to serve future generations as proudly as they did the past.

Historic Preservation Services

Structural Rehabilitation

Restoring integrity to aging frameworks, exteriors, and load-bearing elements.

Masonry

& Woodwork

Period-accurate detailing in brick, stone, and millwork, crafted to preserve heritage.

Material

Preservation

Salvaging and restoring original materials wherever possible—because the past matters.

Code & ADA Compliance

Upgrading accessibility and safety without compromising architectural authenticity.

Interior Retrofits

Modern functionality within historical footprints—discreet systems, timeless finishes.

Historical Coordination

Working hand-in-hand with preservation boards, architects, and regulatory agencies.

Why E L Habetz Builders

  • 50 years of experience in historic preservation and rehabilitation

  • Deep relationships with preservation societies and local boards

  • Proven track record restoring schools, courthouses, churches, and commercial spaces

  • Skilled subcontractor network fluent in restoration standards

  • Professional, licensed, and community-trusted

Featured Restorations

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes historic renovation different from regular construction?

Historic preservation projects require specialized knowledge and attention to detail that go bevond standard commercial construction. When clients use state or federal historic tax - credits, builders must carefully maintain original architectural features while meeting modern building codes. Working with older buildings often presents challenges— replicating historic details, upgrading plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems, and balancing structural integrity with aesthetics. At E L Habetz, our team is experienced in navigating these complexities, ensuring each historic renovation honors the building's past while making it functional for today's use.

2. Do you work with local preservation boards and historical commissions?

Yes. We regularly coordinate with state and local historic boards, as well as the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism. Our team has built strong relationships with these organizations over decades. In addition, our owner is a past member of the Crowley Historic District Commission, and one of our project managers currently serves as a local historic district commissioner. This firsthand experience ensures that our projects meet historic standards while maintaining clear communication with preservation authorities.

3. Can you restore older churches, civic buildings, or museums?

Yes. We have extensive experience restoring a variety of historic structures, including churches, civic buildings, and cultural landmarks. Past projects include the Grand Opera House of the South and the historic Ford Motor building, which we transformed into Crowley City Hall. You can see more of our historic preservation projects [Here]

4. How long does a typical historic renovation project take?

The timeline for a historic renovation depends on the size and scope of the project. A full building rehabilitation- including exterior and interior work, new finishes, and updates to mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sprinkler, fire alarm, and elevator systems— can take 12 to 24 months. Smaller projects, such as façade restorations, typically take 4 to 6 months. Our team works closely with clients to provide accurate schedules and keep projects on track from start to finish.

Have a Project in Mind?

Your Vision. Our Craft.

From offices to restaurants to historic restorations, we bring spaces to life that strengthen communities. Tell us about your project today.

Office:

414 East Northern Ave. Crowley, LA 70526

Hours:

Monday - Thursday:

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Friday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

© Copyright, E L Habetz Builders 2025. All rights reserved.