I think you can get it done for @400 psf including professional fees (architect + engineers) should go with a design builder. I've reccommended these guys before: Broad Channel Builders, www.broadchannelnyc.com

Posted by: Espresso at September 27, 2007 11:42 AM in response to PPSF of addition to a townhouse

Nice work. You could also go ultra high end: bfivestudio.com

Posted by: Espresso at September 27, 2007 11:43 AM in response to Architect recommendations

Try Rafael at (can't totally remember the company name) either Artistic Iron, or Ornamental Metalwork: 917-509-9949. He's a good man.

Posted by: Espresso at September 27, 2007 4:17 PM in response to ironworker recommendation?

I think there are 2 issues here that are being mistaken for each other: One is having a direct vent boiler, and the other is a tankless hot water heater. Direct Vent boilers are great b/c they do away with the need for a flue. I have not heard that they require a larger vent, but know that there are strict clearance requirements away from windows and property lines. Tankless heaters are nice in that you save yourself some space, but might be tricky if you are hoping to get hot water on the 3rd floor of your brownstone and there isn't a reservoir of hot water ready to distribute that water. One way of avoiding that of course is to have a continuous bypass loop for hot water throughout that is always circulating through the boiler. I'm curious to hear what your plumber has to say.

Posted by: Espresso at September 28, 2007 10:18 AM in response to tankless hot water heaters

Try Decorama in Queens. Call Mr. Han at 718 651 1800

Posted by: Espresso at September 28, 2007 10:18 AM in response to PLEASE HELP.in finding fireproof sheetrock.

Yeah, usually you swap, you give final payment, they give lien waiver. Not so common with architects or professionals, and it does depend slightly on the amount$$ and the relationship with the architect. I have asked for them in the past, and I have also not asked for them in the past.

Posted by: Espresso at September 28, 2007 10:22 AM in response to Release of Liens for Architect?

You can use steel columns next to the wooden ones, but you should pour yourself a little footing for each of the new lally columns. And just for kicks: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lally_column

Posted by: Espresso at September 28, 2007 11:20 AM in response to Lally or lolly Columns

Try Ian Colburn at Made. Don't have contact info.

Posted by: Espresso at September 28, 2007 11:21 AM in response to Seeking Architect for Custom Built Soaking Tub

Yes you need a permit from the DoB and the DoT. You should call an someone who can expedite and sign/seal the file drawings: Try Michael DeLuna 212 807-9500

Posted by: Espresso at September 28, 2007 4:55 PM in response to sidewalk access to basement

As you can imagine there are many variables. Often at the top of that list is budget, tied for first place with your aesthetic/lifestyle vision.

If you are well funded for this project I reccommend BFive Studio: www.bfivestudio.com. They do beautiful work, but their fees are notoriously $$$. They seem to do more traditional work with a touch of the 20's, 30's.

If you are interested in a hipper interior that is synthesized with a historical shell, I'd say Agencie Architects: www.agenciearchitects.com, their fees are also more reasonable.

If you are looking for a really quick and dirty, just file and you take care of everything else I'd say Alberto Hoyo in queens..can't find his contact info. right now.

There are many firms out there who have a lot of digital renderings etc., but little built work. I'd say watch out, since they may not have a true grasp of cost, or how the thing actually gets built. Construction experience is a must in my book. Also, personality is huge, I think, since you wind up developing a pretty intimate relationship with the architect which may last quite a bit of time.

Good Luck - E.

Posted by: Espresso at September 30, 2007 9:22 AM in response to need architect for total gut

try maggie peng studio. i know she designed a similar project in brooklyn recently.

Posted by: guest at May 16, 2008 3:42 PM in response to seeking architect for bstone reno

If - when the city screws up my plumning by digging in the street/sidewalk because it's "not city prooperty", leaving me responsible for the bill, then it's not city property regarding the construction fence. They can't have it both ways!

Posted by: guest at May 19, 2008 3:51 PM in response to Payment for Scaffold??

OP and 3:51 sound like real gems.

You don't own the sidewalk fool!

And yes 3:51, YOUR water main is YOUR property. If you don't want to maintain it, simply disconnect from the municipal water supply. Problem solved.

Posted by: guest at May 19, 2008 3:59 PM in response to Payment for Scaffold??

Sadly, the city can and does have it both ways.

Posted by: guest at May 19, 2008 5:19 PM in response to Payment for Scaffold??

Just b/c some company calls doesnt mean they have a right to do it. Why would they need a scaffold in front of your building to do work on another building? I would ask for more info and definitely wouldnt sign anything.

You also might be able to make an insurance claim for loss of rents if the tenants move out.

Posted by: slick at May 19, 2008 8:42 PM in response to Payment for Scaffold??

I dont see any scaffolding extending past any building under condtruction in my neighborhood. There's a 12 story going up with a 4 story brownstone on either side. Tell em NO. then call the DOB

Posted by: guest at May 19, 2008 10:04 PM in response to Payment for Scaffold??

no, you get nothing. Often a 8 foot extension into the next property is required. the city REQUIRES scaffolding or bridging. They make the rules, not your neighbors.

Posted by: guest at May 19, 2008 10:09 PM in response to Payment for Scaffold??

By NYC law, a construction shed must cover the walkway in front of the building from lot line to lot line if there is work being done at more than +40' from grade. IF the work being done is done on a structure that is +100' in height, the shed must extend beyond the lot lines by 20'. That's not to say that all job sites are satisfying the requirement but the law is pretty clear in this case. And just for the sake of karma, it probably bears noting that if your building is over 40' tall, you'll also need a shed when it comes time for your next facade inspection.

Posted by: guest at May 20, 2008 10:57 AM in response to Payment for Scaffold??

As I imagine this thread will be searched this time of year, I want to mention that DIG visited me over three weeks ago to discuss my job (not big but not small). I still have no estimate, and my phone calls are unreturned. Buyer beware.

Posted by: tinarina at May 20, 2008 3:22 PM in response to Gardener/Landscaper needed in Bed-Stuy

Ditto to tinarina's comment about Chuck @ DIG. Nice guy, dynamic personality, but saw him weeks ago for a big backyard renovation in the $30,000 range and haven't heard from him.

Posted by: guest at May 20, 2008 10:07 PM in response to Gardener/Landscaper needed in Bed-Stuy