I heartily recommend architect James Schaefer. I've seen a 4 story house that he renovated from top to bottom. The house, which was VERY tired, now has a nicely redone garden rental along with an owner's triplex with new kitchen, new baths, built-in cabinets, resurfaced walls, a wood burning fireplace converted from gas, and central air. The work is terrific, clean and respects the era of the 1890's building without being fussy Victoriana in execution. He's also a terrific guy to work with.

Posted by: heffe54 at October 21, 2009 4:22 PM in response to Architects?

I am very familiar with this building and live in the nabe. Hawthorne does accept 10% down provided the buyer can get approved for it (Wells Fargo and HSBC are doing 90% financing again, so shouldn't be a problem). There is a one bedroom for sale at 50 Lefferts priced at $235k with a mtc of $520. The Hawthorne building has done many capital improvements recently -- new elevators, new laundry, facade and parapet work. The main difference between these two coops is Hawthorne doesn't allow pets, 50 Lefferts does allow them. 50 Lefferts also has an attended lobby 4 pm - 1 am. Hawthorne doesn't. I like the neighborhood and you can't beat the Q/B trains and proximity to the Park!

Posted by: heffe54 at March 24, 2009 4:55 PM in response to Co-op of the Day: 135 Hawthorne Street

A few observations without taking sides in this debate...
Many sellers are more negotiable now than they were a year ago (or even a few months ago) and for those looking in the new conforming loan range of $625,500k or lower (NY, Kings, Queens, Bronx counties) if you find what you're looking for, go for it! The rates and prices are in your favor. But for those seeking a townhouse in a historic district (or near one) the situation remains challenging -- jumbo loan rates have not come down like the conforming and even for those lucky all-cash buyers there is still not much inventory available and may never be. As a three time home buyer (SF once, Bklyn twice) I'd recommend knowing your spending limits and if you see a house you love, get in the game and make an offer. I've always stayed put for 5 or more years and enjoy improving my residences -- and not even in a "luxe mode", but simply with smart improvements and steady maintenance, and thus far (knock wood) it has served me when I've resold. I've also never bought with the specific plan to resell for profit, but purchased with the goal of a comfortable and attractive residence while I'm there.

Posted by: heffe54 at January 19, 2009 2:04 PM in response to Average Joes Giving Market a Heartbeat

For insight into the depth of noodle culture in Japan see Juzo Itami's "Tampopo" (Dandelion), (on my personal top ten list of films). Ramen is long overdue in Brooklyn!

Posted by: heffe54 at August 20, 2008 8:01 PM in response to StreetLevel: Oodles of Noodles for 4th Avenue

There are an abundance of highly qualified licensed architects is Brooklyn. What's important is to find one who's sensitive to your needs, budget and schedule. Stay away from unlicensed architects or those currently going through the exam process. Work with someone who's done this type of work before and has at least three references from former clients. Ed Kopel Architects.

Posted by: edkopel at October 21, 2009 4:31 PM in response to Architects?

There are an abundance of highly qualified licensed architects is Brooklyn. What's important is to find one who's sensitive to your needs, budget and schedule. Stay away from unlicensed architects or those currently going through the exam process. Work with someone who's done this type of work before and has at least three references from former clients. Ed Kopel Architects.

Posted by: edkopel at October 21, 2009 4:31 PM in response to Architects?

Posted this in the other thread about architect recommendations below but might as well post here too:

I am currently working with a great architect who is talented, responsible and a great communicator. His name is Aaron McDonald and his firm is called ADG/McDonald Architects. His number is 212-465-2200. Highly recommended!

Posted by: wasder at October 21, 2009 5:41 PM in response to Architects?

I'm converting from a 1 fam to a 3 fam now. I got 3 quotes and they were all in the same ball park. How ever K.A.S. Architect provided me with a detail write up regarding what they are going to provide. The work write consist of
A. The Scope of work
B. The Scope of services
C. Exclusions
D. Additional Services
E. Fees and Payment
F. Compensation
G. Termination and Suspension
H. Agreement

If you have any question feel free to e-mail kasarchitect@verizon.net

Good Luck and all the best

Posted by: flawlessphoto06 at October 21, 2009 6:57 PM in response to Architects?

Peter Wilcox
Downtown Group
212-675-9508

Posted by: alrosariojr at October 22, 2009 11:33 AM in response to Architects?

Adding to the above: get references on CURRENT jobs. Go to the sites and talk with the clients. Don't allow yourself to be fobbed off on references whose job was done a couple of years ago. This was a big mistake I made.

Posted by: zeebee_in_bklyn at October 22, 2009 12:14 PM in response to Architects?

David Cunningham at 718 208 0815

I'm working with him now on a whole-house renovation with 1-story addition. The goal is to achieve both greater sustainability and livability on a tight budget. Without David I couldn't possibly have navigated all the paperwork involved in changing the C of O from a 2- to a 3-family, not to mention sussing out the credits for reducing the carbon footprint. The job has just gone to bid. I'm very impressed with David's knowledge of sustainable renovation and attention to detail. He listens closely to what I'm trying to achieve and has added greatly to the design. And his partner Audra Manzano has been helpful beyond imagining in pulling together all the details involved in selecting tile and wood and lighting and fixtures.

I'm probably going to blog this renovation on Brownstoner once we get going. This may be helpful to others going through the same process.

Posted by: Silvermax at October 22, 2009 11:50 PM in response to Architects?