Though there are many great examples of historic preservation and adaptive reuse in Waco, this list of case studies provides a small range of various types of businesses or institutions that have been established in some of our oldest buildings. These can hopefully provide examples and some guidelines for considering what to do–and possibly what not to do–in regards to what is considered best practice for preservation and restoration in the adaptive reuse process. Some of these case studies are focused on iconic buildings in town and are in no way a direct reflection on the business or institutions that run them, but are an analysis of the adaptation process and end result based on professional recommendations, standards, and criteria.
Included in the list are 5 historic properties and buildings that are currently occupied for commercial purposes and qualify specifically as adaptive reuse.
- Balcones Distillery
- Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute
- Magnolia Table
- The Old Church at Magnolia Market at the Silos
- Rapoport Academy on the Paul Quinn Campus
A Disclaimer: Two of these properties fall under the Magnolia name and are owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines. Though this makes up a significant portion of the case studies highlighted here, this is due to the fact that these properties happen to be some of the more noteworthy and remarkable icons for Waco. As the Magnolia name and properties are also a strong driving factor for the renewed development and tourism in Waco, it is important to analyze the most visible examples that are on display for those coming to the city and those who may follow suit for methods of adaptive reuse. The Gaines are also now a weighty force in the historic community as they have bought several of the more prominent locations in Waco and have continued to expand on the number. Any analysis presented here is not to disparage the Magnolia name but only seeks to provide accurate critiques and recommendations for historic preservation based on the advisory guidelines set by national and local authorities on best practices.