A special, limited edition book showcasing many of Bob Allen’s creative renovations and a few homes he built “from scratch” over his 25-year building career. Brief accounts of the rich histories of the properties have been combined with lively discussion of techniques and problem solving. Engaging personal stories have been blended with vivid descriptions of handsome places.

Books are available for $50 at the FAC office during regular office hours

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Camden is South Carolina's oldest inland city. Its handsome homes and public buildings are emblems of its colorful past and signposts for its progressive future. The Camden community actively seeks to protect and preserve the venerable properties that mark it with beauty and distinction.

Camden is blessed with an abundance of fine, old properties and builder Bob Allen has rehabilitated many of them. Applying unusual creativity and expert craftsmanship, he gained a reputation as an "Artist in Residences." Working with the owners, Bob tended and rescued numbers of homes and buildings, but it was the personal friendships that evolved with his clients that inspired them to assemble this book. Their hope is to document the work on each property and to convey something of the unique success Bob has had in achieving beautiful, yet practical, results.

The Committee for Creative Restoration was formed for the purpose of producing a documentary of Bob Allen's artistic contributions in the medium of building. Mostly homeowners for whom Bob has complete major renovations, the committee members met, researched, networked and collaborated for 24 months to assemble historical data, interview homeowners, photograph the properties and write the narratives from Bob's clients' perspectives. The committee presents this book as a tribute to Bob Allen, a true friend.

Tending Old Houses is a retrospective, in part. The book showcases many of Bob's creative renovations and a few homes he built "from scratch" over his 25-year building career. Brief accounts of the rich histories of the properties have been combined with lively discussion of techniques and problem solving. Engaging personal stories have been blended with vivid descriptions of handsome places.

Whether tending old houses or meaningful friendships, Bob has exemplified a commitment to quality, innovation and beauty.