This week I sat down with one of our project managers, Lena Pfeiffer, to discuss what kind of hesitations her clients face when getting started with a project. The renovation process can seem intimidating and, at times, confusing. This can be avoided by being prepared and knowledgeable about your project before reaching out to an architect. Below, Lena recommends considering several things before finding an architect for your project.

Communicate with anyone who shares your space before bringing in an architect.

If you share the space with anyone else – wife/husband/partner/in-laws/family members - these are all important participants in your renovation process. Make sure to discuss the project before reaching out to your architect. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page about what changes will take place – and gives everyone an opportunity to make their voice heard. Come to the table having discussed wish-lists, needs, and deal breakers.

Do I want to reconfigure what is already here or add more space?

Do you need more space or just better organization? Do you need to gut and renovate, or just remove a wall here or there? Consider the extent to which you want to change your space and what improvements can be made to your space within your target budget.  If you’re not sure, this is a great question to bring to your architect. At DTLS, we walk you through what it would look like to totally change your space, as well as what it would look like to reorganize and add storage. It’s always your choice and your vision, down to the last detail.

When do I want the project to be finished?

If you’re dreaming of inviting family over for a holiday in your newly renovated home, you should make sure to understand your project timeline. There is no standard timeline for projects because each is unique and construction time can be unpredictable.  You can expect to spend several months working with the architect, contractors, millworkers, and vendors choosing the components of your renovation. Don’t be afraid to have a timeline in mind and ask your architect how you can accomplish that.

Create an inspiration board for your architect

At dtls, we aim to bring your vision to life. It will be well worth your time to create an inspiration board (Pinterest is an easy option!) for what you want your space to look like. Whether you’re looking for dark and luxurious or warm and cozy, an inspiration board will help you help us create your vision. It will also save you time in the long run if you have fixtures and finishes selected early. Check out our Pinterest to get started.

What kind of resale value am I adding to my home?

Ideally, your renovation is doing double duty – creating the space you envision and adding resale value to your home. Adding features that would be attractive to a future buyer is an important thing to consider. Some features can include: a bathroom with a tub for families with kids, roof access, a garage, extra storage.  Additional upgrades can include, flooring, lighting, tile, kitchen cabinetry, appliances, doors and windows.

Research your home

The majority of homes in NYC have had work done by previous owners. Whether it was done legally or illegally is good to know from the get-go. It is important to research your home with the NYC Department of Buildings to see what kinds of filings and renovations your home has gone through. This information is essential to your architect because if work was done poorly or illegally, that may change the course of your project. Find out more about using the Building Information System to get the history