FWIW,I came across this seller while browsing ebay. He's in Port jefferson, LI. I've never bought from him but most of his stuff looks original to Brownstone Brooklyn.
http://stores.ebay.com/buyncell58

Posted by: HDL at October 15, 2007 2:41 PM in response to Original brownstone door

There is a lot of double talk in Scarano's comments. While I agree that it is the responsibility of the architect to help his client get the maximum value out of a particular development project, FAR calculations are amoung the most codified parts of our zoning code. The word value here is the key. Allowable FAR in large part determines the development potential of a site and thereby value. These FAR restrictions exist to protect public valuables, namely access to light and air, open space, and city fabric. "Creatively interpreting" FAR guidelines without any oversight basically amounts to stealing.
The opportunities to prevent this pilfering of public valuables were many. The developers were certainly complicit. There isn't a developer in the city that doesn't know the full potential FAR for a building site before he purchases the property. It's just basic due diligence. But Scarano built a successful practice based on his interpretations not talent. Developers knocked on his door because he was willing to bet that breaking the rules wouldn't be enforced or noticed. He had the opportunity to vet his interpretations legally with a land use attourney or by conferencing with zoning officials and making his argument but he didn't. To say that this is how good/great architecture comes about denigrates the profession.
Surrendering his self certification is not a sufficient punishment. His license should be revoked.

Posted by: HDL at November 7, 2007 12:27 PM in response to Scarano Sounds Off

What is the suggested alternative to development here? There's been a lot of nothing done for way too long. Cleaning and capping the site is really not that complicated (though I guess Whole Foods got in over their heads). This site would be a great opportunity for a project with a sizeable affordable housing component. Rather than being exploitive of poor and middle income residents it would provide housing near transportation within a reasonable commuting distance. As far as schools the SCA will be spending billions over the next decade or two, why not some of it here? The Subway station at Smith and Ninth is aready slated for renovation as is the overpass itself (to be completed by 2011).
Some have posted that "millions will be risked and lost trying" to develop in areas like this. Others say its a windfall for developers who will be lining their pockets. Which is it? I don't know but with the risks comes reward.

Posted by: HDL at November 13, 2007 4:37 PM in response to Five Developers Bid for Public Place Site

That is neither the design nor the developer.
-informed

Posted by: HDL at November 27, 2007 12:45 PM in response to Development Watch: 388 Bridge Street

Its possible to do it yourself if you're inclined. There are kits available that allow you to make a rubberized polyurethane casting then cast sections by placing the mold in a sand filled shoebox for support. You will need to size the mold and box according to the "repeat length" of the plaster detail in question. A friend of mine did this himself and said it sounds harder than it was.

Posted by: HDL at December 3, 2007 2:37 PM in response to Decorative Plaster Molding

From an architect:
Take a break from the physical work and shift gears. It will be MUCH easier for someone to pitch in and help if you've got something to work from. I'm not talking about drawing up solutions like an architect but rather just documenting the existing conditions. A survey of the house as it exists to within 1/8" to 1/4" accuracy would be where any professional would start, and it requires little or no training, just measuring everything. Make special note of any plumbing or electrical that you know of. You'll find that simply drawing things accurately will get some juices going again. I'm sure I can get an intern (cheap) at my firm to turn it into a AutoCAD file when you're ready.

Posted by: HDL at December 3, 2007 6:09 PM in response to Help me if you can I'm feeling down

Landmark district designations were meant to preserve the integrity of overall neighborhoods not individual structures. As long as the front facade receives the appropriate scrutiny I think the owner should have the latitude to do what they like. The rear yard elevations are already a cacaphonous mish mash of styles, fire escapes, materials (i.e. thermaseal) which when viewed from this oblique angle don't merit the same level of attention. Inappropriate design in the rear yard will be dealt with by the market when they try to sell.

Posted by: HDL at January 4, 2008 12:59 PM in response to 432 Clermont Avenue: Totally Inappropriate

Rustoleum is good but Benjamin Moore Iron Clad is better. Comes in gloss, soft gloss, and satin.

Posted by: HDL at January 9, 2008 10:01 AM in response to cast iron fence paint?

The wall to the left of the entry is almost certainly structural if your house is over 17' wide. That seemed to be the typical maximum span for wood construction back when. There are always exceptions so its good to check. If its structural you'll need a header to pick up the load. Material (wood or steel) and size will depend on the size of the openning and the clearance desired below. If is not structural, anything goes. That said, hiring an architect is always a good idea.

Posted by: HDL at January 9, 2008 10:25 AM in response to Wall removal

Whether or not they have parking for shoppers (and I cant imagine they could survive on building tenants and walk-ins alone, A market will bring trucks, big trucks, just look at the backside of any supermarket.

Posted by: HDL at January 11, 2008 10:46 AM in response to Latest BBP Brouhaha: A Supermarket in the Park