ABOUT US
Douglas Distefano
Principal conservator of Monument Conservation Partners, treating outdoor bronze sculpture, commemorative plaques, and architectural metals across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic
AIC Professional Associate Member N o. 668890 35+ years in the Field
Rumson, New Jersey
Rutgers University - Historic Preservation Spring 2024 to Present
NYU SPS Historic Preservation Certificate (May 2025)
Douglas Distefano is an AIC Professional Member, practicing conservator and founder of Monument Conservation Partners, specializing in the conservation of outdoor bronze sculpture, commemorative plaques, and associated architectural materials in public and institutional settings. His work integrates graduate-level training in historic preservation with extensive hands-on treatment experience, grounded in established conservation ethics, materials science principles, and rigorous documentation standards. He approaches conservation as an interdisciplinary process informed by historical and technological research, careful material assessment, and site-specific conditions. All work is performed in accordance with the American Institute for Conservation's Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice and The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties: Rehabilitation as a Treatment and Standards for Rehabilitation.
Distefano’s practice emphasizes the stabilization of corrosion processes, the preservation and reintegration of historically appropriate patinas, and the judicious selection of protective coating systems suitable for exterior environments. His methodology prioritizes minimal intervention, material compatibility, and long-term stewardship, while balancing aesthetic, structural, and interpretive considerations. Through close collaboration with municipalities, universities, architects, and preservation professionals, his work supports both the physical longevity and the cultural significance of historic monuments.. Douglas is a cyclist, runner, surfer, and the proud father of two young adult children and resides in Rumson, NJ.
Education
Rutgers University
Historic Preservation Spring 2024 to Present
NYU SPS
Historic Preservation Certificate (2024 - Present)
University of Hartford
Bachelor of Arts
Certification
OSHA construction safety
Laser Institute of America
Laser safety, ANSI Z136.1
New Jersey Small Business Enterprise
Profile
Practice and
Approach
Credentials
Education,
membership and certification
Awards & News
American Institute for Conservation - Professional Associate
American Institute for Conservation- Professional Associate March 2026
AIA Award for Finland Embassy - patina finish
Washington Post - Business Article
The Sandpaper Newspaper (article) Lighthouse State Park Bronzes Get Spa Treatment 8/21/2025
RED BANK: VETERANS MONUMENT RESTORATION PITCHED
Email: Douglas@monument-conservation.com
Phone: 917-679-0463
Fox29 Interview at Washington Cross State Park - by David Eitzen - April 2025
July 2026 MarketPlace - NPR- My Economy
Reported by Sarah Leeson
News12 New Jersey
John Basilone Statue Project
Reported by Kurt Siegelin
Apr 2025 FOX 29 Philadelphia
On-camera interview at Washington Crossing State Park
Reported by David Eitzen
Reported by David Eitzen.
Aug 21, 2025
The SandPaperLighthouse State Park Bronzes Get Spa Treatment
Jan 30, 2024
Red Bank GreenRed Bank: Veterans Monument Restoration Pitched
Jul 27, 2017
The Coaster, Asbury ParkCity Historical Monuments Under Review
Certifcations
Professional Standing
American Institute for Conservation
Professional Associate, 2026 — Member No. 66890
AIA Award, Embassy of Finland
Patina finish
Procurement & Contracting Information
NJ BCS # 0450125448
NJ SBE # A0537-65
SAM.GOV # INC-GSAFSD11441518
NAIC # 712120, 712110, 238390, 541990
NIGP # 962, 910