Harriott Valentine Engineers

It may take a little creativity to redesign an older space for current needs, but doing so conserves materials and preserves some of the character of the original house.

1) Precariously stack a bunch of boxes in order to reach the framing above or 2) just use the tool specifically designed to reach high places? ...I'll take the ladder.

Holes in wide fl**ge webs can often be accommodated if they are reasonably sized and away from point loads. But ask your structural engineer first!