The price of real estate in Manhattan is, in a word, shattering. The cost of living in New York is almost twice the national average, with average rent at around $3,667. Citywide, prices for housing rose 124.2 percent from 1996-2006. Between 2016 and 2017, sales prices for single unit properties increased by 11 percent.
This is bad news if you’re looking to get in the market, but it’s amazing news if you’re looking to sell or lease an apartment. If you were considering renovation, it’s time to move up your timetable–renovation does wonders for your property value.
This is where a New York architect steps in to save the day. We’re breaking down what an architect does for you and how to make sure you hire the right one.
The Role of a New York Architect
Architects can handle a variety of tasks for their clients, though the specifics vary among individual architects.
For example, one of the main things an architect does for you is draft your renovation plans. In fact, the technical drawings an architect can provide are key to making your ideas a reality.
Of course, the fun comes when an architect brings creativity to the project. Maybe you want to renovate to create more closet space or combine two apartments–an architect can make it look beautiful in the process.
Experienced architects will also maintain good relationships with a number of reputable contractors who they can recommend to bid on your project.
The slippery lines come in when you’re dealing with the difference between an architect and a designer. As a rule, the designer is the person who can advise on finishes and fixtures, which can cover everything from tile to cabinets.
If you don’t have (or plan to hire) a designer, you’ll need an architect that can fill that role for you. If your renovation includes moving walls or other major renovations, you will need an architect to file your project’s plans with the New York City Building Department.
Questions to Ask
Before you ever hire an architect, you need to know what you want them to do for you. This involves knowing key details about your project.
A few good questions include:
- What do you like about your current home?
- What do you want to change?
- Why do you want to add on to your current home? Define functions specifically.
- What is your lifestyle? Are you home often? Are you always in the office?
- What kinds of spaces do you need?
- What do you think the renovated space should look like?
- Do you have strong ideas about design styles? What are your preferences?
You should try to get as specific as possible in defining what you want to be done to your current home, what you want it to look like, and what purpose you want it to fulfill that isn’t currently being met.
How to Hire an Architect
Once you know what you’re looking for in a project, it’s time to figure out what you’re looking for in an architect.
Shop Around
First step: do some shopping around.
Ask your friends, family, and broker for recommendations. Look for firms that match your style and make a list to call. You should also check with your building management–they may keep a list of architects that know the idiosyncrasies of your building.
Once you’ve spoken with a few people, meet with architects at your site. Most are willing to do this for free before you’ve even made an offer. Then, listen to how their vision and your dream home come together.
Decide on Scope
Next, decide on the scope of your project.
In New York, the average cost of hiring an architect varies. This is based on how extensive your project is, how long it takes, and what kind of materials you want to use. Architects can bill you based on a percentage of construction cost, a fixed fee or on an hourly basis depending on the project.
As such, it’s important to know how much you want to accomplish with this project so you can get a sense of what the project will cost (and how it meshes with your budget).
Find the Right Fit
Finally, make sure to find the right fit.
It’s not just about design style. You need an architect you feel comfortable with whose personality works well with yours. If you’re not comfortable, you’ll be stressed by the time the project is finished.
The Architect You Need
Ready to dive into your renovation project?
Click here to take a look at our projects or contact us to get set up with a consultation.
Located in the Greater New York area, Jeffrey Jordan Architect specializes in the design of high-end projects such as luxury apartment and townhouse renovations, schools, churches, temples and offices.