Choosing Architects and Contractors for the renovation of my Brownstone

I am in the process of choosing professionals for the renovation of my brownstone – particularily Architects and Contractors.  I’ve seen several recommendations on this website.  How do I really find out about these people?  How do I check an Architect’s licensing and credentials?  Can I uncover if a contractor is being sued for shoddy work?  In addition to the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Better Business Bureau, what is the best most indepth way to check the background of these people?  I want to pick a professional that is honest and one that does good work.  Any advice on this matter would be appreciated.

ferney1c

in Architecture 12 years and 10 months ago

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allans | 12 years and 10 months ago

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Hi ferney1c,
I went through similar thoughts and anxiety when I started to look for Contractors – I too was doing a gut renovation but only the parlor and garden floors of my brownstone.  I was new to the whole renovation game and I had a significant budget so I was extremely intimidated by the whole process to begin.  I learned it’s extremely important that you visit “current” or “in process” jobs similar to yours.  So ask the contractor(s) to arrange an on-site visit, additionally ask to meet that client as well.  This was extremely helpful to calm my fears and get “comfortable” with my potential GC.  I was able to talk to their client and as specific questions to both parties.  PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU TALK TO THE ACTUAL CLIENT (if not live then via phone or email) – A GC WHOM I TOURED A SITE WITH WAS ACTUALLY A SUB-CONTRACTOR AND NOT THE GC OF RECORD (when on-site look at the permits).  Try and visit at least 2 to 3 in-progress job sites AND ask to visit a “finished” project (again speak to the client as well).  If the GC does not have this available then it’s a definite “red flag”, specifically if they say they are Brownstone “gut” specialist (they should have on-going and finished projects to visit).
Lastly, it became extremely clear to me who was professional and who was not when receiving the estimates.   I recieved only one (1) itemized per floor estimate with a detailed scope of work and schedule, the others gave me bulk prices with no explanation or details of work to be done.  I also did regular due diligence which consited of checking licenses, the BBB website, and asking for proof of insurances.  The company I ended up going with was All Renovation Construction, specifically my point person was Pietro Calabretta (http://www.allrenovationllc.com).  If you have any specific question fell free to email me at allans1935@gmail.com. 
Best,
Allan S.

sabulba | 12 years and 10 months ago

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Renovation is very crucial to anyone related to hte building or any other construction work. one should deal sharply when dealing to anyone regarding this work. Taking advice from architect is good step, and discuses them according last time work can help to find the bug in this work and fix the problem.   http://www.shutterco.ie/external-exterior-shutters.html

danyny | 12 years and 10 months ago

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I would suggest you meet the architect, ask to see previous projects that are similar in size and budget to yours and talk to previous clients. Customer feedback is the best way to go when you can get it. I used Architensions and I was extremely pleased. Website is www.architensions.com and you can find contact info on their website. Hope it helps.

newhouse | 12 years and 10 months ago

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Recent client references are very important.  It would also be helpful to visit projects that the contractor and/or architect have recently finished or is about to finish.  If you’re a serious potential client, contractors and architects who are proud of their work should be willing to take you on a tour of their projects.  We are at the tail end of a renovation in Park Slope and as a happy client, I’m always willing to speak with potential clients and let them visit my house.  Our contractor, Creative Renovations, and our architect, Ben Herzog, both did an amazing job on our renovation so I’m eager to share my positive experience with their potential clients.

BrooklynMade | 12 years and 10 months ago

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I recommend interviewing Peter at Method Restoration (www.methodrestoration.com). He is extremely knowledgable and is truly passionate about his work.

anonymous | 12 years and 10 months ago

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Hey Ferney1c, It is bit hassel but if you do call consumer affairs and BBB defintely you will find information about the contractor company. I am sure if you BBB you may able to find information about architect as well. If you are indicisive on deciding on contractor, then I can suggest you the construction company I used for my brownstone house renovation. The company name is CTG construction, they are very reliable. I know people who had used them had similar experience as I did. Call them at 718-669-8305.