Garden Extension Advice?
We live in 25′ garden apartment which has a shoddy extension built on the back which functions as the kitchen and a little throwaway room. We’d like to build an extension onto this exisitng extension but don’t know quite how to proceed. This existing extension is 2 stories high so in terms of structure, it…
We live in 25′ garden apartment which has a shoddy extension built on the back which functions as the kitchen and a little throwaway room. We’d like to build an extension onto this exisitng extension but don’t know quite how to proceed. This existing extension is 2 stories high so in terms of structure, it can’t be knocked down without getting our upstairs neighbor involved (not an option).
Where do I begin? Who do I contact to first tell me what is possible and what I’m allowed to do and to give me a general time/cost estimate? Architect or Contractor or both? Or does one find the other? Chicken or egg? Any names and numbers would be so appreciated!
It doesn’t really seem like a simple job b/c there’s also a fire escape that ends right where we want to build as well as a clumsy patio. And because the new room would house the kitchen, there will definitely be plumbing and potentially gas issues as well.
Help! I can only deal with one more drafty winter and a sink that I can’t fill a pasta pot in! 🙂
is this a coop/condo building, and have you discussed and gotten approval from the other residents in the building? If this is a coop building, would any remaining FAR just get divided equally?
Hi,
I’m an architect in Brooklyn and I have a lot of experience in rear yard additions. I’ve even added to my house. Some where on this site is a picture of the green house addition that I built.
The first step is to retain an architect. You can retain one just as a consultant to figure out what you can and cant do. They will perform zoning calculations, building code analysis, site visits to determine feasibility and a general estimate of what to expect as far as cost and time for construction.
You are off to a very late start if you were hoping to beat the winter. So either get cracking or plan for next year.
I am interested in your projects but I do not want to solicit work on this site.
I do suggest that you contact the New York and Brooklyn chapters of the A.I.A. and the New York Society of Architects.
Good luck,
Robert Proffitt
How can you go about figuring out (1) your current FAR and (2) how this translates into additional space.
I am not the original poster but curious since I also wanted to modify our old extension and potentially build a third floor (if this is even permitted).
Begin by finding out if your FAR will let you build anymore on the property. If your building has maxed out what it is zoned for you cannot build anymore square footage.