Fort Ross Windmill

The faithful reconstruction of the Windmill at the Russian settlement, Fort Ross challenged the balance between authenticity and modern building regulations. The design of the windmill was collaborative, joining Russian carpenters and historians with our local team. Sensitive modifications had to be introduced to comply with environmental reviews, California Parks & Recreation regulations, and life-safety building codes. Creative approaches to engineering the windmill were essential, resulting in the successful concealment of seismic bracing and mechanical attachments with the wooden log structure, effectively balancing historic integrity with modern safety requirements.