Can Anyone Recommend A Pragmatic Architect?

I’m buying a brownstone and planning some renovations.  The sheetrock, electric, plumbing, gas piping, and floors were all repaired and replaced 10 years ago.  I’m planning to combine two of the floors into an 1800 square foot apartment.  I don’t need a gut renovation.  I’m looking for an architect who will work with me to accomplish my goals using existing structure, where appropriate.   The renovations and finishes will be mid-range.  I also need someone who knows how to work on a budget, and would be willing to take on a job in the $100,000 – $150,000 range.  New architects and small firms would be ideal.   Thanks!

brett195

in Brownstoner Renovation 12 years and 9 months ago

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brettlewis | 11 years and 4 months ago

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Pepinohill, I wanted to thank you for your recommendation. We hired Bhavesh Shah, who did a truly fantastic job with the renovation. Bhavesh did an amazing job of working the remaining original details into the design, while adding some modern touches. We were on a pretty tight budget, but Bhavesh was willing to consider alternatives to some of the more expensive finishes that we could not afford. He was also completely willing to collaborate with us on ideas, designed a fantastic lighting plan, and guided us through every step of the process. A link to some pictures of our brownstone before and after are below. The before pictures do not even begin to tell the story of how much work needed to be done. Thank you!! http://openstudio.us.com/bed-stuy-brownstone/

goh | 12 years and 8 months ago

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Hello, Please feel free to contact me to discuss your project.  I’m a partner at a young architectural design studio 0 to 1\.  We’ve recently completed a landmarked townhouse renovation in Brooklyn heights.  During the demolition we discovered 100 year old moldings that we integrated and balanced into the new design.  http://www.0-to-1.com/projects.php  We work closely with clients and contractors to Create the greatest design within the parameters of the budget and timeframe. Best regards Garner Oh, RA goh@0-to-1.com

danyny | 12 years and 9 months ago

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Hi there, I can recomment Architensions. They did a mezzanine for me, and I was really happy. I also know they worked on a brownstone renovation in the Bed Stuy area with limited budget (something similar to your budget). They know very well the building code and can help you with that. They have a team of engineer and contractors they work together, so they can provide the full package if needed. The principal has extensive experience at Steven Holl (a major star Architect) and he can provide great design solutions while working with you. You can check their work at www.architensions.com, and you can find their contact info on their website as well.

dillettanteinbedstuy | 12 years and 9 months ago

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what do you do professionally?

pepinohill | 12 years and 9 months ago

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We did a gut renovation of our home last year using Edward Mills & Associates as our architect.  He wasn’t cheap, but he and his junior partner, Bhavesh Shah, have a great asthetic and helped us make some great design choices and trade-offs to maximize budget.  For example, we splurged on a new window in the kitchen, but used IKEA for our cabinets. It doesn’t look like an IKEA kitchen because of the details – they helped us select higher end cabinet pulls, they designed custom molding above the cabinets (which makes the ENTIRE cabinet looks custom), they mitered (sp?) the marble countertop to look like a two inch slab, etc.  Even suggestions such as paint color in the parlor (Atrium White with Super White for molding) and the dark floors go a long way.   Anyhow, long preamble to say that the junior architect, Bhavesh, started his own business – OPEN STUDIO – and is taking smaller jobs.  Here’s the link:  http://openstudio.us.com/wordpress1/about/#   We are the “Fort Greene residence” in his portfolio.  The apartment renovation isn’t in the album, but they did an amazing job with that, too.  Please note that although we did NOT stay on budget, we loved the end result.  Good luck!

builtinstudio | 12 years and 9 months ago

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I would be happy to discuss the project with you. Please feel free to call or email. Gary Eisner
347-599-1054
geisner@builtinstudio.com