Structural Engr vs. Architect?

I do not see how you will get this project going with just a structutral engineer. No second or third opinion from other architects? It this type of reno, it seems like a normal situation for the architect to bring in a structural engineer for part of the process.

"not too much focused on aesthetic look & design" ~ good luck with resale!

If you had a duplex situation (combining a unit into the unit below or above), and ONLY want to put in a staircase and remove kitchen fixtures, a structural engineer might be sufficient -- you'd work out the finishes with your contractor, I guess...

If you're going to move any walls, including any sort of combination on the same floor, hiring an architect is an obvious and essential step. (And yes, they will want a structural review from an engineer -- you want that too, and your building may require it.) It will cost you something but turn out MUCH better, presuming you interview properly and select someone good.

Delbel,

Most of the combos we do are with an architect. If they need to get an engineer its not a big deal. You can limit what you want them to do as well.

I just started to combine 2 apartments. My client hired the architects to do the following:

Drawings
All dept of building filing
Expeditor
All sign offs

She spent roughly $15,000.00. I believe it was cheaper as this architect did the same thing for the apartment right above them so it didnt take very long

Thank you all.
Primer what size will the combined space be? That sounds like a good $deal. Assume it includes drawings for your interior work. Are they changing either kitchen, baths? Just trying to get a sense of how complicated a reno we are talking.

Your architect will be much more concerned with getting the flow right than your engineer. Engineers typically look to architects for direction.

Andrew Mikhael, AIA