Why was an architect needed for this project when it appears at first glance that just the siding and color scheme were updated?

The 40 year old “wood” foundation system had completely failed. The foundation wall had bowed 12” out of plumb and was leaking in several locations.

The existing upper two stories had to be braced and shored for the lower floor foundation wall to be removed and rebuilt.

All the building systems, including mechanical, electrical and plumbing had to be replaced and re-connected.

The entry, lobby and hallways were all rebuilt.

It may look like the same building, however it has been rebuilt from below the ground up through the roof. The new siding and color scheme were simply the icing on the cake.