I somehow think there are people who believe that the value of this building, architecture, and history is worth saving.

There may be specific architectural features that you can't touch because they are historic vs. the entire property.

I graduated college with a degree in Architecture.  

Both have virtually the same choices of architectural detail i.e. curvalinear, pop outs, roof line options, T, L and even U shapes can be designed to meet just about any design challenge found in "SITE BUILT" homes.Both can have garages albeit HUD MANUFACTURED HOMES do require an alteration permit if the garage is to be attached.

And city permitting, working w/ architecture, soils testing, etc.?

I studied architecture at UH and decided to go into real estate in order to achieve financial freedom and my dream of designing, building/developing new affordable, sustainable housing.

I am looking for a quote for construction only excluding all the soft costs like architectural,engineering, permit, etc.

Not sure if this applies to your zoning or proposed building type, but there are Architecture "Hacks" for student housing.

Sometimes the floor plan and architecture hold up well over time, but some of the materials not so much.

I have alot of experience from the design side (architecture) and have been involved in a alot of development projects.