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July 22, 2009
Landmark Specs for Windows
I need to replace basement-level windows in a brownstone which is in a landmarks district. I have two questions:
Has anyone hired an architect to do elevations of existing windows? And what is the normal fee for this?
Secondly, can anyone recommend a company that will do a small job (4 windows) in an historic district?
Comments
Architect here.
When you replace windows in a landmark district, your architect will do more than just elevations. They'll need to provide detailed sections (both existing and proposed), a floor plan designating windows that will be replaced, provide a color sample, photo board showing existing windows and condition, etc. It's usually a bit more work than simple elevations.
Fees vary from architect to architect, but if it's a small job whose scope is literally just Landmarks and DOB filing, they'll probably charge an hourly rate for the work (that's what I would do). You should negotiate with the architect so there's a fee cap (not to exceed amount), otherwise the bill could be enormous. I'd assume between $4,000 and $5,000 total. You will also need an expediter to file both Landmarks and DOB filings, and that usually costs up to $3,000 + the cost of filing fees, asbestos tests, etc.
You architect will recommend manufacturers that can match the existing windows. There are numerous manufacturers that are on Landmarks approved list of manufacturers.
Good luck.
60designers@gmail.com
Posted by: 60designers at July 22, 2009 6:46 PM
Wow 60 your estimate of $4 to $5K for replacing only four windows seems way too expensive even with all what is mentioned above as far as architectural work. Does that include ordering the windows too? Got an estimate for total architectural fees in a gut renovation on landmark block with 13 windows for ~$32K. What are we missing?
Posted by: pierre de taille at July 22, 2009 7:41 PM
We use Skyline Windows in Manhattan, Union Square. I think they tacked on an extra 2500 for their architect and expediter to file with the city. 28 windows in all, various sizes. Any good window company will have their own people do the filing.
Posted by: modsquad at July 22, 2009 8:33 PM
Yes, when my old co-op ordered windows through Bay Ridge windows they did all the filing.
Posted by: Putnamdenizen at July 22, 2009 9:12 PM
Yes, if you hire an architect to do the filing you'll be looking at fees for the architect and separate fees for an expediter, which is more costly than simply engaging the window manufacturer to take care of the entire filing. I think Modsquad's suggestion makes sense for the poster since they are planning no other work but these few windows. The $4,000 I mentioned was the cap...Most likely the fee would be far lower since the job would be billed hourly.
Posted by: 60designers at July 22, 2009 9:23 PM
I got my windows through Air Flo windows. They are listed. They did all the filings with the landmark Commission. They did a good job.
Posted by: donatella at July 23, 2009 2:29 AM
Oh, and by the way, replacing all the 10 front windows of my four story house -- two large, specialty sized parlor floor windows, two windows on garden floor, three on 2nd floor, and three on top floor, complete with new brick mold which is the wood framing on the outside of the building around the windows -- cost 11,000 dollars. This included the filing. The filing is not hard, but like everything, it helps if your person is experienced because landmarks is a strange little universe. Also, we filed in January and got the approval in June, I think so it takes time. You need to account for that.
Posted by: donatella at July 23, 2009 2:35 AM
donatella, we need new windows too. can you tell me what kind you chose? thanks.
Posted by: balanchinelover at July 23, 2009 10:46 AM
Modsquad, I looked for Skyline Windows and found them at W. 130th St. Manhattan. Is this the same company you mentioned in Union Square?
Thanks.
Posted by: kb16mm at July 24, 2009 12:39 PM
Hi.
It all depends on what kind of windows you want, and what kind of mood LPC is in that day your expediter presents. From the sounds of it, you will have an LPC application that can be reviewed at staff level and need not presented to the full board. If you are trying to match historic design, and can prove that (via old tax photos or otherwise) it should be easy to get LPC approval. As for window vendors; there are many to choose from and your design professional should present/ recommend a few for you to choose from, but without knowing the style it is hard to say beforehand!
I am an architect and interior designer with over 15 years experience. I have just recently broken away from long time business partner in Manhattan and relocated my practice to Brooklyn - where I have been a resident for six years. I have significant historic preservation, LPC, residential design, project direction and construction management experience.
I would love to help you with your facade restoration project. I am confident that I can the end result will exceed your expectations and meets your budget.
I have a comprehensive portfolio for review. I hope to hear from you.
Regards,
Alan Barr, founder
GOWANUS DESIGNinitiative
917.749.0119
gowanus.design@gmail.com
Posted by: Gowanus Design Initiative at July 25, 2009 10:24 AM
Does anyone have any experience with Interior Alterations and/or Historic Windows? I am in the process of contacting some of the window installers recommended by this forum - Air Flo does not like to return phone calls, it seems.
Posted by: kb16mm at July 29, 2009 7:01 PM
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