Last time I talked about my core beliefs on design. Today, I will take us back to the Albany Park property and tell you what I did next.
While the building was being prepped for rehab, I began my search for an architect to do the design drawings which would eventually lead to construction drawings for permit. I was lucky to know an architect that was self-certifiable; lucky that I knew of him, not so lucky in how I met him. I found him several years ago on a deal gone bad, yes, gone bad, a discussion for another time. Today we having a working relationship currently working on several rehab projects for other Bungalow clients. So, what does a self-certifying architect mean? It means that the architect can certify the construction drawings for permit reducing the time it takes to get permit by weeks and sometimes months. That person can also approve in-field project changes.
While my architect did the existing building survey (taking notes and dimensions of the building) I spent several days sketching out my ideas for the layout and design of the house. The interior of the house was in such degradation it required a full gut which allowed me to investigate the design of an open floor plan, not just opening walls but removing them and using beams to support the structure. Again, I would retain as much as possible; in this case, it turned out to be the wood floors in the front of the house, the two stained glass windows and the drop-down ironing board; not very much to work with. As I was sketching, my first thoughts turned to the layout and functionality of the space; the existing layout and its original intended use. Then turning to what would it take to make it a modern-day family home with requirements such as master bedroom en-suite, nanny/ parent suites, indoor/ outdoor space for entertainment, home offices, and the latest in appliances and technology. With all this in mind I was able to keep most spaces in their original location with the exception of removing the middle bedroom on the first floor and moving the staircase in its place. My concept ideas resulted with an open floor plan, a 1st floor master en-suite, two large bedrooms and full bathroom on the second floor, a fully finished basement with rec room, bedroom, full bath and utility room. And, a large deck. I then met with the architect and gave him my sketches for review and incorporation into the design drawings.
Next time “How I found a General Contractor or…. Owner Occupant as GC?”
