About
A firm built on respect for original material
Preservation Solutions exists to keep historic objects and places intact, authentic, and meaningful — for the communities and stewards who care for them.
Our story
Preservation Solutions is built on more than three decades of hands-on conservation experience, under one conviction: a historic object's value lives in its original material, and that material deserves expert, patient care.
From the masonry of Parliament Hill to national war memorials, public sculpture, and museum artifacts, we work alongside owners, institutions, and government stewards — assessing what they have, planning responsibly, and carrying out conservation that honors each piece's history while securing it for the generations to come.
Leadership
Meet Joseph Sembrat
Joseph Sembrat
President & Principal Conservator
Joe Sembrat founded Preservation Solutions after more than two decades conserving some of North America's most significant heritage — from the masonry and sculpture of Parliament Hill's West Block and Canada's National War Memorial to public monuments, mosaics, bronzes, and historic artifacts across the continent.
His approach pairs traditional craft with modern conservation science — thorough documentation, reversible treatments, and a deep respect for original fabric guide every project the firm takes on. For Joe, conservation is about making the fewest, most considered interventions a piece needs to survive for the next generation.
MSHP — Master of Science in Historic Preservation
Graduate training in the documentation, assessment, and treatment of historic buildings, sites, and materials.
Fellow, AIC — American Institute for Conservation
The highest grade of AIC membership — reserved for conservators recognized for distinguished, sustained contributions to the field.
- 35+ years in art, architectural & artifact conservation
- Trusted by federal agencies, museums, and municipalities
Our philosophy
“Preserve original material wherever possible. Replace in-kind only what is beyond repair. Document every decision.”
It is a discipline, not a slogan. It keeps us honest about what a piece actually needs, and it keeps irreplaceable original material in place rather than lost forever.
Credentials & standards
Held to the highest standard in the field
Recognized Conservation Standards
Our work follows the AIC Code of Ethics and, for historic properties, the Secretary of the Interior's Standards — the benchmarks for responsible conservation.
Materials-First Philosophy
We preserve original material wherever possible and replace in-kind only when something is beyond saving — favoring reversible treatments.
Trained Conservators
Our team pairs formal conservation training with hands-on craft, making decisions grounded in each object's history and materials.