David Del Gallo’s passion for historic preservation spans over four decades, beginning with his work at the Morette Company, where he honed his craft for 45 years. After retiring from the company, David didn’t step away from his passion—he embraced it full time through his own venture, Advanced Construction Services. Together with his wife, Tonya, he has worked tirelessly to restore Pensacola’s most cherished landmarks and homes, breathing new life into the city’s rich architectural history.
David and Tonya’s journey into preservation started when they began purchasing homes in need of renovation, and it quickly became clear that their love for historic homes was more than just a hobby—it was a calling. While their personal passion is historic preservation, most of the work they do is in East Hill, and not all of it is historically driven. Whether it’s renovating a kitchen, updating a bathroom, or restoring an entire home, they’re able to handle any kind of renovation. Their versatility and commitment to quality make them a go-to for many homeowners looking to update their properties, whether those projects are rooted in history or simply about enhancing functionality and design.
In 2002, David and Tonya had just completed restoring their previous home, a project so impressive that it had been featured in the Pensacola News Journal. After that monumental effort, they thought they were done. But then, David found a Greek Revival home that captured his heart. When he first introduced Tonya to the house, it was in dire condition—orange shag carpet, window units, and makeshift window coverings. But Tonya saw potential. “How do you think your furniture would look in that house?” David asked, and with that simple question, they embarked on a transformative journey.
The previous owners, Mr. and Mrs. Russell, were thrilled when David and Tonya completed the renovation, knowing that their memories remained intact while the house had been lovingly restored. From the seven antique fireplaces to the structural repairs and insulation, David ensured that every part of the home maintained its historical integrity while adapting to modern needs. The extreme attention to detail in their home speaks volumes about their passion for preservation. Inspired by Victorian design, every tapestry, hand-painted wallpaper, and needlepoint was carefully selected to complement the home’s historical charm. Each lighting antique and rewired fixture was chosen to enhance the space, while the antique dining room set and complete three-piece master bedroom set were restored to their former glory. Not to mention the 1836 Steinway piano and real pirate’s chest, which add layers of history and character to their home. The carefully curated antique seating, furniture, and decorative tchotchkes—crystal, porcelain figurines, and other treasures—complete the story of the home.
For David, each project—whether personal or professional—is more than just construction work; it’s a labor of love, a way to connect with the past and make it relevant for future generations.
As Pensacolians, David and Tonya are driven by a deep sense of responsibility to protect the unique heritage of their town. Their commitment to preservation extends beyond their own home. They’ve worked on a number of significant projects, including the Ella Jordan Museum, where David was called in by architect Eddie Todd to assist with its renovation. This cultural heritage project was not just about restoring a building—it was about preserving the story of Pensacola for the community and future generations to experience.
David’s work is defined by a rare combination of expertise, respect for history, and passion. It’s clear that he doesn’t just see old homes or buildings; he sees stories—stories that need to be protected, told, and passed on. One of the most powerful examples of this is when he and Tonya saved a historic house across the street from their own. Developers wanted to tear it down, but David and Tonya refused to sell it to someone who wouldn’t honor its history. Instead, they found buyers who were committed to restoring it. For David, that wasn’t just a transaction—it was a personal mission to ensure that the history of Pensacola remained intact.
After a half century in the industry, David’s transition to his own business, Advanced Construction Services, has allowed him to work more directly on his passion for preservation. He has taken on countless projects through his company, over the last 20+ years, each one another opportunity to protect Pensacola’s unique architectural character. For David and Tonya Del Gallo, historic preservation isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about community, heritage, and a sense of place.
Every renovation project they take on is a reflection of their dedication to preserving the past, but they are equally committed to making any home or space more functional and beautiful. Whether it’s a historical renovation or simply updating a kitchen or bathroom, their work is about enhancing the spaces that define a home. It’s more than just fixing up old houses; it’s about honoring the legacy of the people who built them, telling the stories they hold, and ensuring that future generations can experience the same sense of wonder and connection. Pensacola’s history is alive in these buildings, and through their work, David and Tonya ensure that history endures, enriching the lives of everyone who calls this city home.
David Del Gallo and Advanced Construction Services (ACS) played a key role in the renovation of the Ella Jordan Museum, preserving its historical integrity while updating its structure. Collaborating with architect Eddie Todd, they helped restore the museum as a cultural heritage landmark, ensuring its continued importance to the Pensacola community and maintaining the rich history it represents.
For David and Tonya Del Gallo, historic preservation isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about community, heritage, and a sense of place.