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keeping the past present

Brett Waterman Champions Historic Architecture

Waterman said his dedication to historic preservation stems from a profound appreciation of architecture's role in our lives. “Architecture is the highest form of art because it's the art we live our lives in every day.”

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Brett Waterman has dedicated over two decades to preserving America's architectural heritage, from intimate residential projects to significant public buildings. Known for his holistic approach to restoration—including solutions like reversing entire brick walls to reveal their preserved faces—Waterman champions the importance of maintaining historic structures' authentic character in a contemporary world.

Initially focusing on hands-on restoration work, Waterman has evolved into a passionate advocate for historic preservation on a national scale. While many were introduced to him as the host of the television show Restored with Brett Waterman, his impact extends beyond residential renovations. He consults with property owners and organizations across the United States, helping develop preservation strategies that honor both architectural heritage and practical needs. Throughout his career, Waterman has emphasized the critical importance of understanding historical construction methods and materials. "I'm learning from those before me and they're still teaching me," he said, "because I'm pulling apart what they put together two or three hundred years ago."

Waterman helps stakeholders understand the intangible value of their historic properties while developing practical approaches to their maintenance and restoration. By bridging past and present, his work helps communities understand how historic preservation shapes our collective future.

“Architecture is the highest form of art because it's the art we live our lives in every day.”

Where it all began

One particular building sparked Brett Waterman's preservation journey—a journey that continues to unfold in new ways for him everyday.

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Learn with Brett Waterman | Historic Lighting

Historic Bones, Personal Touch

Looking to make your historic home distinctive without compromising its architectural integrity? Brett Waterman reveals a simple yet powerful way to add your personality to your period home.

Early-20th-Century Lighting

Brett Waterman discusses the origin of the Arts & Crafts movement—sometimes called Craftsman or Mission styles—and shows some historical lighting that caught his eye. He described why he finds the handcrafted nature of the style so appealing:  “It's all about custom, unique and special pieces that feel very personal, and most ornamentation is purposeful.”