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Interior Designer, Contractor, Architect?!

Started by giovilla
over 13 years ago
Posts: 4
Member since: Mar 2008
Discussion about
I am currently in the market to purchase an apartment. We are seriously considering buying an apartment that requires a gut renovation. It's becoming clear that we will get the most space for our dollar. That said, we know it's a daunting task, and since we've never done this before we have no clue where to start. Do we need an Interior Designer, Contractor, Architect?! Recos, thoughts?
Response by crescent22
over 13 years ago
Posts: 953
Member since: Apr 2008

you must have amazing forecasting abilities if you can divine with clarity already that cost+gut+overruns+holding cost has a lower price than a non-renovation.

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Response by lobster
over 13 years ago
Posts: 1147
Member since: May 2009

I thought the same way you did, but ended up buying an apartment which needed a little but not alot of renovation work. I'm not sorry that I did. Taking on a gut renovation is a daunting project, especially if you don't have much renovation experience. If you are handy yourself and get can do some of the minor projects, I can see where you would save some money. But renovation projects, especially for beginners, can be both costly and a big headache. Price things out carefully before you purchase a fixer-upper. Good luck.

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Response by Teenyteacup725
over 13 years ago
Posts: 43
Member since: Jun 2012

giovilla - What do you envision in a gut renovation? The more you tell what you want to do, the better people can answer. How many square feet, current bedrooms, square feet etc

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Response by giovilla
over 13 years ago
Posts: 4
Member since: Mar 2008

well, i'm still weighing my options, but i've seen apartments that are completely empty. for example i've seen a couple of lofts that are completely bare. no kitchens, bathrooms, or walls. they range from 1500-2000 sqft. the plumbing is there it's just a matter of building it up.

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Response by GA_12
over 13 years ago
Posts: 46
Member since: May 2009

We can give a really good outline of what it's going to take in New York and where to start, give us a call: 212 685 6358 or email to info@manhattanrenovations.com

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Response by BuiltINstudio
over 13 years ago
Posts: 70
Member since: Dec 2010

You will at least need a contractor and architect for this kind of project. An interior designer would be a big help as well, if the the architect cannot provide interior design services. I would recommend calling a few contractors and architects to start the interview process. You can meet them at a prospective property before you make any decisions to get some ballpark numbers on cost and time, as well as an idea of what is possible for the space.

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Response by StudioLAB
over 13 years ago
Posts: 23
Member since: Sep 2011

An experienced designer, architect or contractor should be able to give you ballpark numbers after seeing the space and reviewing your scope. We do this often for potential buyers thinking about purchasing and renovating an apartment. Please visit our website to view samples of work and contact us if you would like to speak further about a potential project.

www.studiolabdesign.com

Best,
Matt
mhm@studiolabdesign.com

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Response by HirshsonDesignGroup
over 13 years ago
Posts: 20
Member since: Feb 2012

While it may be a daunting prospect to do a gut renovation, the end product is a reflection of your exact wishes. The process varies with each designer and client, but a good working relationship with your project team should make for a smooth process completed on your budget.

I suggests speaking/meeting with a few architects/designers who can assist you with the analysis, for many homeowners do not differentiate between what constitutes a minor cosmetic fix oppose to a complete reconfiguring of the space. I've completed several complete residential renovations in Manhattan, and I'd be happy to speak with you about your potential renovation. Please feel free to contact info@hirshsondesign.com with any questions.

Best of luck!

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Response by BigPapi
about 13 years ago
Posts: 95
Member since: Nov 2012

GS Architects has done a lot of good stuff

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