Architects

Architect to Combine Units?

I am combining 2 apartments (new construction condo) in Park Slope (adding apt below) and the fully renovating both. I need quality recommendations for architects/designer/contracting. I need someone who can work with us from beginning to end (demo – furnishing) – we both work have family etc…we cant hands on manage project or research every…

by primavera
01/21/2010

I am combining 2 apartments (new construction condo) in Park Slope (adding apt below) and the fully renovating both. I need quality recommendations for architects/designer/contracting. I need someone who can work with us from beginning to end (demo – furnishing) – we both work have family etc…we cant hands on manage project or research every door knob – but we are particular and know what we like (like traditional with modern accent). Also budget is not limitless so cost-consciousness is a factor.

Architects

Comments

  1. I have an architect I adore – Laurie Lieberman. She’s located in Park Slope, is extremely easy to work with, and more attentive than I ever thought possible. Like you, we combined two apartments in a Co-op building in center Slope. We’ve lived in the apartment throughout the renovation (2 parents and 2 kids, with both parents working). Before we came to Laurie, we were working with a different, Manhattan-based architect. We ended this relationship because it wasn’t working, and because we were two years into getting approval. So I have the fortunate/unfortunate experience of being able to compare two architects back to back. Laurie’s design is great, we love the contractor we’ve been working with, she really understands our needs… I can’t say enough positives. If you want to give me a call for more details, I’m happy to discuss – 917-697-4335.
    Naomi

  2. We were very happy with Michael Gray Architects who worked with us on a combination of two Co-Ops in a duplex layout, connected by a beautiful stair. They do a lot of work in Brkyln Hts, Carroll Gardens and Park Slope brownstones, and they combine very successfully a clean modern look with the trad details of that typical Brooklyn building type. They’re in Chelsea in Manhattan, and they work with an all-European construction crew with a lot of craft skills when it comes down to the details. They were very relaxed to work with, and kept the costs down very efficlently, and what we liked best about them was they way the end result looked like it really belonged in the brownstone, and also made the spaces feel bigger by the way they handled the lighting and glazing.
    Best of luck with your renovation!
    Chuck B

  3. Hi Primavera,

    Please have a look at our work, we are a well established design firm with considerable experience in the area and a wealth of contacts to help ease the process. We also have a great background in working with tight budgets and making every dollar count.

    We would be happy to meet with you to discuss your project.

    Best,
    Jordan Parnass

    http://www.jpda.net
    718-852-2650

  5. primavera – combining units in a new construction building is a unique type of renovation. While not uncommon there are loads of logistics.

    Ideally you should bring an architect on board before you close on any sponsor owned units – there may be some negotiations that can occur that will prove invaluable for your renovation. In this market there is a lot that can be negotiated.

    If you are purchasing for a neighbor, there is still much to be considered. In the last 4 years our office has combined and renovated units at Riverlofts (92 Laight St), Riverhouse (Battery Park), 60 Spring St, and 200 Chambers. Each one was tricky and navigating the specifics of individual build politics can be a challenge.

    You should interview at least three architects, remember this is a long term commitment/relationship – not only must he or she ‘get’ your style but also have a good rapport in your collaboration. Any initial ‘consultation’ should be free, it’s part of understanding how you will work together.

    Finally, you should visit one or two projects that were completed by your top two architects. Good architects will have a stable of good contractors they turn to.

    Your self described style reminds me of a gut renovation we did of a Carnegie Hill Residence. Perhaps this will give you some inspiration.

    Best of luck,

    Drew Stuart
    Incorporated Architecture & Design

    http://www.incorporatedny.com

  8. you will need to do it under an alteration type 1 with a new c. of o. unless if you file it under TPPN 3/97 which alllows to combine apartments to create a biggewr apartment without affecting the old C. of O. which will reduce a huge amount of time and money so look into that regardless. need more iffo e-mail me @ brooklynexpediter@gmail.com

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