Forum Archive

I’m a new apartment owner. Took years but that’s NYC. And of course, it needs work. I’ve read through most of the archived Forum posts concerning permits, architects, contractors in hopes of better understanding what I need for the renovation. But I’m still a bit lost. The plan is to redo the kitchen, a typically small NYC space but not minor work: ripping out the wall to the living room so it’s an open kitchen, new plumbing for washer/dryer and the sink. Also tile the bathroom to fix water damage, replace fixtures, and build closets in the two bedrooms (if money permits). Is there a benefit to using an architect instead of a ‘kitchen designer’ with one of these kitchen/bath stores? Will an architect do a small job like this? Or can the GC work with me to plan the kitchen and closets? Also, if I do hire an architect to do the plans, is he/she the only one that can pull permits? Finally, if I go the architect route, do I still need an expediter? I realize these are a lot of beginner questions but appreciate any input.