Renovation

Arch/Contractor for Pre-War

We’re moving to a pre-war apartment soon in downtown Brooklyn and are doing a walk through this month to get an idea of what it would cost to do some work. This is a place with nice detail, but we’re not looking at uber-costly finishes or a ton of work (nothing structural, etc). We’re want…

by brookjoo
02/01/2010

We’re moving to a pre-war apartment soon in downtown Brooklyn and are doing a walk through this month to get an idea of what it would cost to do some work. This is a place with nice detail, but we’re not looking at uber-costly finishes or a ton of work (nothing structural, etc).

We’re want to reface (possibly replace) the kitchen cabinets, put in new counters (not marble) and replace the backsplash and lighting, plus paint. We may move a sink, but don’t need to move pipes, just extend them.

We’re also looking to replace the tile floors in two bathrooms and repaint; as well as painting one of the bedrooms and the hallway.

Firstly, is it better to go through with an architect or a contractor?

Secondly, can anyone recommend a good architect or contractor with whom they’ve worked? We want something tasteful: not sleek and modern, but not too traditional or fussy.

If you’re a GC or Arch. and going to promote yourself, please at least provide a web site, or some references.

Thanks!

Renovation

Comments

  1. My name is Colin Broadus and if you are looking for quality work at a reasonable price, dont look any further..Please check out my website at: broaddesigngroup.com or call me at 718-600-6172. This is my area of expertise so please give me a call.

  2. If you are looking for quality work at a reasonable price Than im your architect! My name is Colin Broadus and Im am ready to work! Please check out my website: www. broaddesigngroup.com or call me at 718-600-6172.

  4. Also note that if you’re moving into a Condo or Co-op there may be rules regarding alterations. If that’s the case, look into their “Alteration Agreement” to determine what will be required.

  5. As others have said, no need for an architect for this sort of work, particularly when someone like us can offer all the design services you would need under the umbrella of our general contracting work. We’ve got experience accross the full spectrum from restoring fine details in turn of the century brownstones to complete contempory gut renovations, so we can accomodate your tastes, whatever they might be. Give us a call. We’d be happy to do a little brainstorming at your place and offer you some of ideas of the best way to approach your project.

    Michael Vinocur
    Building Equity LLC
    631-680-9368
    mvinocur@buildingequitynyc.com

  7. I don’t think you need an architect. Honestly it doesn’t even sound like you need a GC. You could possibly get away with going straight to the subs.

  8. Don’t hire an architect to merely replace some tile and a countertop and other cosmetic updates. Use that money to upgrade to nicer finishings instead.

    We used Anthony Riccio, a contractor based in Brooklyn (but who works in Manhattan too) who has an excellent team who show up every day and get the job done. He does a lot of kitchens but he does do bathrooms and general contracting. You can read a lot of positive reviews for him on Apartment Therapy:

    http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ny/contractors/anthony-riccio-good-contractor-001506

  9. It does not sound like you will need to file for permit, the sink can be filled by a plumber with an laa-1. An architect is your advocate. We provide clear dcuments for he contractor to bid on. Email me at jdeboer@jockdeboer.com and I will send your an e-brochure. I can provde references too and recommend contractors too.

    Jock deBoer, AIA
    deBoer Architects
    718-354-7926

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