I've been reading some of the posts here about NYC renovations. This is a different one and I would love some helpfull opinions. We are in montauk ny (hamptons area) which is a house instead of an apartment. Our budget is around $250k and Planning of make it bigger expanding the kitchen (and also renovating), it will also alow us to make our dinning area bigger since it will be a open plan. Built... [more]
I've been reading some of the posts here about NYC renovations. This is a different one and I would love some helpfull opinions.
We are in montauk ny (hamptons area) which is a house instead of an apartment. Our budget is around $250k and Planning of make it bigger expanding the kitchen (and also renovating), it will also alow us to make our dinning area bigger since it will be a open plan. Built a master suite (with master bathroom and walk-in closet) attaching it to the existent house and also built a garage. Of course we are planning on saving as much as possible. My husband is an electrician so he could do the electrical work. Also I'm going to do most of the shopping and search for the best deals. The question is: is it worth it to hire an arquitect for the entire renovation? Should we hire hourly and save some money? Will 250k be enough ? I know it's a lot but we are planning on doing a lot ourselves such as flooring, not plumbing but bathrooms tiles, painting, kitchen backsplash.. Does anyone know if eastern long island is cheaper than NYC and could share some good contacts out here? Thanks!
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Response by mackall
almost 14 years ago
Posts: 4
Member since: Oct 2011
Fmm, I'm biased 'cause I'm an architect. But yes, do hire an architect - just make sure it's a good one (but not sure how you determine that, alas). My service is a bit different than most - I measure up (directly into a laptop) and work out the basic plan right there, first day. If you like what you see, we continue. If not, ciaio (sp?). The important thing: get the plan drawn up hardline that first day so you then can get to the next step: making it better. As for contractor, I only use a construction manager I've known for years. He's local, and knows all the trades very well. He also has zero incentive to cut corners, a big plus. Louis Mackall (mackall@mac.com)
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Response by estimator
almost 14 years ago
Posts: 77
Member since: Nov 2011
shoot me an email i can get you a contact info who can help at that area.
estimator
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Response by estimator
almost 14 years ago
Posts: 77
Member since: Nov 2011
estimatorr at msn com
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Response by Primer05
almost 14 years ago
Posts: 2103
Member since: Jul 2009
Fmm,
It sounds like the budget should be fine. You need an architect to file and then perhaps you can pay him a fee for weekly visits. If you need any recommendations I would be happy to give them to you. You can email me at primerenovations@mac.com
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Response by 5thGenNYer
almost 14 years ago
Posts: 321
Member since: Apr 2009
I can recommend Martin Safren- he works on Long Island. And I would agree with Primer that you should definitely use an architect.
My firm does work in NYC & in the Hamptons and has some great relationships with some smaller, quality builders who would be ideal for a project of your size and scope. I am currently working on a similar type of project out in East Hampton Springs. Please contact me if you would like to speak further.
Fmm, I'm biased 'cause I'm an architect. But yes, do hire an architect - just make sure it's a good one (but not sure how you determine that, alas). My service is a bit different than most - I measure up (directly into a laptop) and work out the basic plan right there, first day. If you like what you see, we continue. If not, ciaio (sp?). The important thing: get the plan drawn up hardline that first day so you then can get to the next step: making it better. As for contractor, I only use a construction manager I've known for years. He's local, and knows all the trades very well. He also has zero incentive to cut corners, a big plus. Louis Mackall (mackall@mac.com)
shoot me an email i can get you a contact info who can help at that area.
estimator
estimatorr at msn com
Fmm,
It sounds like the budget should be fine. You need an architect to file and then perhaps you can pay him a fee for weekly visits. If you need any recommendations I would be happy to give them to you. You can email me at primerenovations@mac.com
I can recommend Martin Safren- he works on Long Island. And I would agree with Primer that you should definitely use an architect.
www.martinsafrenaia.com/
Hi Fmm,
My firm does work in NYC & in the Hamptons and has some great relationships with some smaller, quality builders who would be ideal for a project of your size and scope. I am currently working on a similar type of project out in East Hampton Springs. Please contact me if you would like to speak further.
Best,
Matt
mhm@studiolabdesign.com