Transforming a Landmark with Precision Demolition
As one of the leading providers of demolition services in Maryland, ISI Demolition was proud to support the adaptive reuse of the historic Wilkins Rogers Mill Complex in Ellicott City, MD. The 198,000-square-foot flour mill, built between 1916 and 1941, is being converted into Ellicott Mill Apartments, a major residential redevelopment led by Terra Nova Ventures and Southway Builders.
ISI’s expertise in selective demolition and historic building preservation helped transform this century-old industrial site while maintaining its architectural integrity.
Selective Demolition and Structural Dismantling in Maryland’s Historic Ellicott Mill
As part of the Ellicott Mill redevelopment, ISI Demolition delivered selective interior and structural demolition that balanced precision, safety, and preservation. Every phase required careful coordination to maintain the stability of the 100-year-old structure while creating open, buildable space for modern residential construction.
Working within the tight confines of the mill’s concrete and masonry walls, ISI’s team used BROKK robotic demolition equipment to safely remove material in areas inaccessible to larger machines. This technology minimized vibration and helped protect delicate historic features such as the original stone façade and window openings.
Throughout the project, crews performed extensive saw cutting, shoring and bracing to stabilize deteriorated concrete and timber beams. In several sections, temporary supports were engineered to hold up the existing exterior walls while the interiors were dismantled beneath them—an approach that preserved the building’s architectural character and satisfied National Park Service preservation standards.
For larger components, ISI utilized high-reach and crane-assisted demolition techniques, removing obsolete machinery and heavy beams from upper floors with precision lifts. The team also managed debris sorting and recycling onsite, diverting more than 88% of the 4,200 tons of waste from landfills.
In total, ISI completed over 30,000 manhours of work without a recordable safety incident—demonstrating the company’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and the complex demands of historic demolition in Maryland.
This project showcased the best of what ISI does—complex, technical demolition that preserves the past while making way for the future. Working within the constraints of a historic structure required creative problem-solving and close coordination with every partner on site.
Sustainability and Safety
As part of a LEED-certified redevelopment in Maryland, ISI Demolition placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and worker safety throughout the Ellicott Mill project. More than 4,200 tons of material were removed from the historic site, with 3,700 tons—an 88% diversion rate—recycled or repurposed. The team implemented advanced dust suppression, vibration control, and noise mitigation measures to protect the surrounding Ellicott City Historic District and nearby residents. Over the course of 30,000 manhours, ISI maintained a perfect safety record with zero recordable incidents, reinforcing the company’s reputation for responsible, sustainable demolition in Maryland.
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Diversion Rate
Project Partners
- Developer: Terra Nova Ventures
- General Contractor: Southway Builders, Inc.
- Architect: Alexander Design Group
- Historic Consultant: MacRostie Historic Advisors (Ryan)
- Crane Partner: Maxim Crane Works
- Asbestos Abatement: ASI
About ISI Demolition
With more than three decades of experience, ISI Demolition is a trusted leader in demolition services across Maryland, South-Central Pennsylvania, and Florida. We specialize in selective demolition, structural dismantling, robotic demolition, and saw cutting for complex industrial, commercial, and institutional projects. From small-scale interior projects to large, complex demolitions and historic preservation work like Ellicott Mill, ISI combines technical expertise with a commitment to safety, sustainability, and precision.
Ready to partner with a demolition contractor who can handle your toughest projects? Contact ISI Demolition to learn more about our capabilities or request a quote for your next project.
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