Architecture.... Design.... Design/Build
I am planning to renovate my brownstone and I am looking for an architect or possibly a design/build firm. I’d prefer a modern aesthetic (not a restoration, especially for the kitchen and bath I plan to add), but with respect for the existing details of this 19th century home which I love and would hate…
I am planning to renovate my brownstone and I am looking for an architect or possibly a design/build firm.
I’d prefer a modern aesthetic (not a restoration, especially for the kitchen and bath I plan to add), but with respect for the existing details of this 19th century home which I love and would hate to see lost.
This is not a complete gut, but the work will be extensive. I anticipate wanting mostly high-end finishes and I want to make sure this job is well done, I’m prepared to spend for quality and good design.
I would greatly appreciate recommendations of people you have experience working with.
Also, if you have worked with any of the following and would be willing to share your experience, that would be very helpful.
– Ahari Architects
– Coburn Architecture
– Made LLC
– Schappacher White
– SPG (Sidnam Petrone Gartner) Architects
– Stephan Jaklitsch Architects
Thank you very much!
Hi – This was just forwarded to us (SPG) today (11/2), so perhaps you are beyond the research part of this undertaking. Nonetheless we thought that we would respond to say that we might be a perfect fit for you. We’re a modernist practice but all our townhouse work is done with a respect for any and all features worth saving. We enjoy the intersection possibilities of old and new, stylized and abstract, decorative and clean. We’ve only done gut renovations on houses that were too compromised (esthetically and structurally) to keep intact.
We’d be delighted to give you names of some of the townhouse clients with whom we’ve worked so that you can get firsthand feedback on our abilities and track record. If you haven’t been there, please check our website (www.spgarchitects.com). If you are interested in working with us please be in touch – we’d be happy to discuss your project.
Thanks and Good Luck,
Coty Sidnam & Eric Gartner
cnsidnam@spgarchitects.com
eagartner@spgarchitects.com
Hi- I am a high end contractor and have worked on several townhouses with Steve and Rhea at Shappacherwhite. They are extremely good to work with, I may even say fun, knowlegeable with quick decisive responses to on site situations. It would be, without a doubt, worthwhile to pursue this further.
As a side bar, we have just completed an extensive renovation on a Brooklyn town house that would cater to your taste. When the time is right and you would be interested I would be happy to show you my work.
Good Luck,
Eddie
http://www.edmundlewis.com
we are high end GCs who do design/built work
w/ 2 excellent firms.
20 years on the block.
email if you like.
karen@resheffinc.com
Hi – we are a small architecture and design practice with both a clean, modern aesthetic sensibility and experience in fairly involved brownstone and rowhouse renovations. If you are still interviewing architects, we would be happy to speak with you about your project. Sorry for the self-recommendation, but we will gladly furnish recent client contacts for your reference upon request.
thanks in advance,
Ben
http://www.pelloverton.com
Always interesting to deal with this question of merging design sensibilities in a brownstone. What I have found tricky in my own experience is how to create clearly defined moments that while modern in their aesthetic interact with the existing turn of the century detail in a logical manner. It’s a balance of making the elements distinct but complimentary at the same time.
One strategy we used on a project was to almost emphasize the distinction between the existing detail and the new constructions within the space. You can treat the existing detail as a kind of backdrop in which you insert these elements of a more modern construction; stairs, cabinetry, lighting, etc. These constructions become like newer inhabitants in an older home, but of their time in their design and assembly.
What would also be intriguing is to really re-think the program of the house in a modern framework. That is, most brownstones have a very formal delineation of spaces, parlor/public space, discreet corridor, private spaces above,etc. Looking at ways to connect spaces and open up the floor plan would be a way to treat the renovation as a “modern” not only in its aesthetic but in it’s use of space, which can be very meaningful in house you live in a house. Hope it all goes well.
I would be interested in seeing the house and talking more about your thoughts for the project. Drop a line if you wish.
Regards,
George Roushakes | 917.647.2678
Too many cooks in the kitchen. I would get an architect who you trust to do interior design. Too many checks and balances means too mean changed decisions and second guessing. Just find one person you trust.
I just actually gutted to the brick and still kept tons of original details, it actually can be done. But now that I am almost done with the job I prefer the newer moldings that we put in to the rooms where we restored the original moldings. Not that I want perfection. But it’s a stark comparison. Luckily the rooms are not even on the same floor or anything. I think you should probably also be prepared to work with an interior designer. In my experience architects who do interior design/finish selections are very slow to work with. It’s better to separate church and state. And then you have some checks and balances and another person there solely to think about how you are going to be using and enjoying the space.
OP here again…
I believe it dates from the 1870s, though (as with most) it’s estimated at 1899.
Thanks all for you comments, much appreciated.
Sorry folks, test post