These are terms from the world of historic preservation.

PRESERVATION

Focuses on the importance of changes and alterations to the structure over the years, which is accomplished by retaining all of the historic fabric through conservation, maintenance and repair.

REHABILITATION

Also known as adaptive use, or using an old building for a new function, emphasizes the retention and repair of the historic integrity of a building, while allowing certain liberties to be taken in the process for the retrofit.

RESTORATION

The act of retaining materials and features specific to the most significant time in a property’s history, and includes the removal of any materials or features that are not indicative of that time period.

RECONSTRUCTION

An authentic reproduction of a structure that no longer exists.

Tags: adaptive re-use, adaptive use, historic preservation, preservation, Reconstruction, rehabilitation, restoration