How to find past info/review on architects and contractors


After meeting with a few architects and contractors I think I am close to selecting a team for my renovation work.

Before I sign on the dotted line I just wanted to give them all one final check, so was wondering if anyone has any suggestions of ways to research these professionals to make sure they don’t have complaints or violations filed against them, etc.
Any ideas where/how I would do this, other than a quick google search and searching the forums here?

Categories: Architects
By hotpinksharpie | 03/23/2011 3:25 PM | Comment

Self-educating- where to begin?


Hi everyone-

For those of you who have gone thru the process of renovating a brownstone I’m wondering if you have any good educational resources to recommend. My husband and I are in the market for a brownstone and it seems likely that whatever we buy will need some form of renovation, either at the time of purchase, or throughout the life of owning it. I’d love to start educating myself now on the basics – from cosmetic restoration of wood details and facades, down to the abc’s of boiler installation and upkeep. While we are unlikely to do this work without the help of a professional, it would still be great to be educated when making our decisions.

It seems there is a wealth of information online – from home renovation magazines, to blogs and forums like this one. I’ve been lurking here for a while and have found loads of helpful information, but would also love to know if anyone has recommendations for some really good comprehensive resources – print or online. Thanks!

Categories: Renovation
By hotpinksharpie | 04/13/2009 11:52 AM | Comment