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V O L . X X X I I N O. X I I ยง 2 J U N E 1 , 2 0 2 6 28 MEREDA 2025 NOTABLE PROJECTS Gehring House BETHEL W oodhull's rehabilitation of the Gehring House, a Bethel landmark that dates to 1896, preserves one of the town's most significant historic structures while addressing a critical need for high-quality, year-round hous- ing. e three-story, 13,000-square-foot structure, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, had experienced decades of deferred maintenance, outdated systems and interior layouts that no lon- ger supported contemporary living. Woodhull provided full architectural design and construction services, transforming the build- ing into nine thoughtfully integrated apartment units without altering the historic fabric. e work required a careful balance between preservation and performance, including structural reinforce- ment, modern mechanical, electrical, and plumb- ing systems, and comprehensive energy upgrades. roughout the project, the team prioritized the restoration of character-defining features, salvag- ing and reusing original woodwork, flooring, and millwork wherever possible. Over 14,900 square feet of historic material was preserved, minimiz- ing waste while retaining the building's embodied carbon and craftsmanship. e project's scope also included upgrading life- safety systems, meeting current building codes, and integrating new systems within a historic structure, which required close coordination with the Maine Historic Preservation Commission and the National Park Service. Working alongside the Northern For- est Center and a network of skilled local tradespeo- ple, Woodhull implemented a design-led construction process that ensured each intervention was both tech- nically sound and historically appropriate. Federal and Maine State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits were instrumental in making the project financially viable. Sustainability was central to the project 's approach. In addition to material reuse, new prod- ucts were sourced locally where possible, including Maine-manufactured wood flooring and siding. e introduction of wood-fiber insulation reduced embodied carbon, while the replacement of an out- dated oil boiler with a high-efficiency wood pellet system is projected to reduce heating emissions by approximately 54%. ese strategies demonstrate how adaptive reuse can advance environmental performance while preserving historic character. Beyond the building itself, the Gehring House has had a measurable impact on the Bethel com- munity. e addition of nine high quality apart- ments helps address a shortage of workforce hous- ing, supporting teachers, healthcare professionals and service workers who are essential to the local economy. Construction engaged local contractors and suppliers, circulating investment within the region and supporting skilled labor. e Gehring House stands as a model for rural redevelopment, demonstrating how thoughtful pres- ervation, integrated design and construction, and strategic investment can strengthen communities while ensuring historic buildings continue to serve meaningful, lasting purposes. P H O T O S / T R E N T B E L L P H O T O G R A P H Y CLIENT: Northern Forest Center GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Woodhull (team: Michael Cleary, Mark Sturgeon, Shawn Couture, Molly Perry) ARCHITECTURAL TEAM: Woodhull (Patrick Boothe, Anna Pajulo) ENGINEERING TEAM: Haley Ward Engineering HISTORIC CONSULTANT: Margaret Gaertner LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS: Mitchell & Associates