Trout Architects has teamed up with Joe Gallagher of Heritage Preservation Resources to return this structure to its 1912 conditions and preserve it for the future. The cabin was originally built in 1863 by John A. O’Farrell on the block across the street from its current location on Fort Street. It is considered the first family home in Boise and the first place of Catholic worship in Boise. It is listed on the National Register of Historic places.
In 1995 Heritage Preservation Resources put together a Conditions Assessment report the project team will be working from that. Joe will be identifying which logs were in the cabin in 1995, conserving them and incorporating them as close to the original condition as possible. New cottonwod logs will be used to match the historic logs. The cabin will also be rechinked and redaubbed.
Trout Architects assisted with all necessary agreements and permissions with neighboring properties and municipalities. We also explored the use of 3D laser scanning to accurately draw this unique and historic landmark. Ultimately we were not able to utilize this tool, however we thoroughly enjoyed leaning about the advantages that this new technology may provide.