Weighing Design-Build vs traditional architect...?
Long time lurker, first time poster so go easy on me 🙂 Purchased a really lovely neo-grec in Bed Stuy recently. It’s in pretty great aesthetic shape (unpainted molding, tons of original detail, etc).
I’m starting reno journey now and looking to do all the hidden work (update electrical, plumbing, sure up any joists that need sistering, repoint few places etc), add a deck, and then do light reno on parts of a few floors. Eg. on the parlor floor I want to plumb in kitchen, but probably install ikea cabinets myself. Upstairs I want to reno the bathroom but floorplan unchanged. Top floor want to turn a little dinky kitchen into a laundry room. That kind of thing. Most of rest I plan on doing myself—as much as aiming to save money, I also just enjoy doing this kind of work myself.
My sense so far is the scope/my budget (200ish) may not be enough to grab interest of traditional architect, and I’m wondering if anyone has advice on how to approach this and if my instinct to go with a design-build firm is the right one?
Thanks!

Guest User | 4 years ago
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Guest User | 4 years ago
string(1) "3" string(6) "200749"
Don’t be deterred – do you research and proceed. The people here are very helpful and some are very knowledgeable. However 1. things aren’t always black and white. 2. Sometimes there are occasional statements made here based on hearsay but that doesn’t make them true in every situation. 3. You may return and tell us that the C of change was a pain, not worth it and everyone was right or might end up differently. Nothing is right or wrong, go with your instinct if you trust it and do your research. Wishing you luck!

cate | 4 years ago
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Congratulations on the new house!

Guest User | 4 years ago
string(1) "3" string(6) "201683"
I’m actually going to need an alt1 (changing CofO as some units were once SRO, didn’t mention bc I know that freaks everyone out, but i’ve done my homework and i’ll good on that front). But yeah it’s beautiful house (was a house of day on here last year). Going to be posting lot more with more interesting questions i’m sure. thanks!

cate | 4 years ago
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You will need an architect (or engineer) to file an Alt-2 permit to legally install a parlor floor kitchen where there is none now and the deck, regardless of who does the construction work. There is plenty of scope here to interest an architect. It’s a good idea to interview a few to see what they say. Exciting to hear the house has tons of detail and you plan to keep it. Architect is likely to have a rolodex of contractors, plumbers, electricians, masons, etc., and pull with them you may find useful. It’s a bit tricky finding people right now — everyone seems to be massively busy. Exciting your house has tons of detail in good condition and you’re planning to keep it all. That’s wonderful.