Richard Sidebottom

Overview

Richard Sidebottom is a Principal at Ryan, based in the Firm’s Charleston office. He specializes in advising real estate developers, investors, and property owners on federal and state historic tax credit programs and related incentive opportunities. Richard works closely with clients to structure and secure incentives that support the rehabilitation of historic, income-producing properties, helping align preservation goals with financial and investment objectives.

With extensive experience across both private and public sectors, Richard brings a comprehensive understanding of historic preservation requirements, regulatory frameworks, and incentive program administration. He has supported projects in more than 20 states, with a strong concentration in the Southeast, and is highly experienced in navigating the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. His work includes preparing tax credit applications, National Register nominations, and environmental and historical documentation. Richard is also an active contributor to the field, regularly speaking on historic tax credit programs and publishing insights in industry journals, helping clients and stakeholders stay informed on evolving policies and best practices.

Education and Qualifications

Master of Architectural History with Preservation Certificate, University of Virginia

Bachelor of Arts in History, Emory University

Experience and Achievements

Principal, Ryan, Charleston, SC

• Advises developers and property owners on federal and state historic tax credit programs.

• Prepares certification applications, National Register documentation, and compliance materials.

• Supports incentive strategy for historic rehabilitation projects across multiple states.

Director, MacRostie Historic Advisors

• Provided nationwide consulting services to developers, lenders, and investors.

• Supported rehabilitation of historic income-producing real estate through tax credit programs.

Owner, Sidebottom Preservation

• Founded and led a regional historic preservation consulting firm.

• Delivered solutions for incentive applications and environmental review processes.

Supervisor and Reviewer, South Carolina Department of Archives & History

• Reviewed compliance for tax incentive and outreach programs related to historic preservation.

Member, Historic Tax Credit Coalition

Member, Urban Land Institute (ULI)

Member, Historic Charleston Foundation

Former Board Member, South Carolina Review Board for the National Register