# Apartment Renovation NYC > Apartment renovation NYC with licensed architects ## Pages - [Services](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/services/) - [Apartment Renovation](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/services/apartment-renovation/) - [Kitchen Remodel Design](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/services/kitchen-remodel-design/) - [Bathroom Remodel Design](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/services/bathroom-remodel-design/) - [Gut Renovations](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/services/gut-renovations/) - [Design Board](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/design-board/): Explore curated NYC apartment interior design boards for apartment renovations. Perfect atmosphere, clear material direction - designed by licensed architects before its built. - [Minimize Risk](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/minimize-risk/): Avoid contractor fraud and hidden costs in your NYC apartment renovation. Learn the red flags, dos and don'ts, and how an architect protects you. - [Owner's Protection](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/owners-protection/): How to protect yourself during apartment renovation NYC - hire an architect first to protect your interests. We review contracts, builder payments, and DOB compliance. - [Design & Cost](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/design-and-cost/): How much does NYC apartment renovation cost? Explore design options, timelines, team roles, and realistic budgets. Licensed architects. - [Renovation Steps](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/renovation-steps/): Learn the correct way to renovate NYC apartment step by step: design, DOB approvals, builder selection, and construction phase. Architect-led process and guide explained. - [Privacy & Cookie Policy](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/privacy/): Privacy & cookie policy for - [Articles](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/): Expert articles and guides on apartment renovation NYC: permits, costs, architect vs builder, DOB approvals, safety, savings and more. Written by licensed NYC architects. - [Home](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/): Apartment renovation NYC, architect-led from design to completion. DOB permits, builder selection & owner protection. Schedule free consulting, call us today. ## Posts - [Asbestos — The Hidden Risk Inside New York's Buildings](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/asbestos-hidden-risk/): Asbestos in NYC buildings affects nearly 70% of pre-1987 structures. Learn how to test, manage, and safely comply with this hidden risk inside New York's buildings - DEP and DOB asbestos regulations. - [Cost of Renovating an Apartment in NYC (2026 Guide)](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/cost-of-renovating-apartment-nyc/): Cost of renovating apartment NYC ranges from $100–$500+ per sq ft. Our 2026 guide breaks down design fees, construction costs, and filing expenses validated by licensed architects. - [NYC Apartment Renovation Guide for Owners](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/nyc-apartment-renovation-guide-owners/): NYC apartment renovation starts with hiring an Architect — not a contractor. Learn about DOB permits, co-op board approvals, and how to avoid costly mistakes in our NYC apartment renovation complete guide - [What Is Construction Administration (CA)?](https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/what-is-construction-administration-ca/): Construction administration NYC ensures your Architect oversees the apartment build for code compliance and quality. Learn what CA means and why skipping it is risky. # # Detailed Content ## Pages > Explore curated NYC apartment interior design boards for apartment renovations. Perfect atmosphere, clear material direction - designed by licensed architects before its built. - Published: 2026-05-14 - Modified: 2026-06-09 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/design-board/ NYC Apartment Interior Design Board | Apartment Renovation NYC Designs Skip links Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Design your apartment with an Architect — ARCHITECT OF RECORD— DOB EXPEDITING IN-HOUSE— DOB PROGRESS AND SPECIAL INSPECTION SIGN-OFFS 60 2ND AVENUE, UNIT 2NEW YORK, NY 10003, USAHELLO@APARTMENTRENOVATION.NYC+1 646 331 5444 Pinterest Instagram Youtube Service provided by LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D.P.C. Design & Cost Timeline Team Members Floor Plan and Interior Design Approvals and Permitting Construction Phase Design Board Renovation Steps Basic Steps How We Work Design Process Builder Get Approvals Construction Phase Architect vs Builder Owner’s Protection Owner’s Overview Why Architect Contracts Pre-Qualified Builders Construction Cost Construction Schedule Minimize Risk Construction Cost Industry Issues Builder’s Fake Advertisement Dos and Don’ts High Risk Solution We Offer Common Irregularities Articles Contact Us Service provided by LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D.P.C. Architect of Record DOB Expediting In-House DOB Progress and Special Inspection Sign-Offs 60 2nd Avenue, Unit 2New York, NYHELLO@APARTMENTRENOVATION.NYC +1 646 331 5444 Nice to meet you Email address Message Send Message Toggle navigation Design & Cost Timeline Team Members Floor Plan and Interior Design Approvals and Permitting Construction Phase Design Board Renovation Steps Basic Steps How We Work Design Process Builder Get Approvals Construction Phase Architect vs Builder Owner’s Protection Owner’s Overview Why Architect Contracts Pre-Qualified Builders Construction Cost Construction Schedule Minimize Risk Construction Cost Industry Issues Builder’s Fake Advertisement Dos and Don’ts High Risk Solution We Offer Common Irregularities Articles DESIGN BOARD CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL... > Avoid contractor fraud and hidden costs in your NYC apartment renovation. Learn the red flags, dos and don'ts, and how an architect protects you. - Published: 2026-05-08 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/minimize-risk/ MINIMIZE RISK CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. WE GUIDE YOU THROUGH +100 YEARS OF STANDARDS STRATEGIZE WITH ARCHITECT Save time and money Construction Cost Industry protocols that an Architect implements on an apartment renovation project offer cost control from Initial Meeting to Final Completion. Builder cost estimates before Architect engagement are not reliable as there are no drawings available at that stage. A Construction contract (Owner/Builder Contract) that an Architect advises on covers omissions in Builder estimates for an Owner's protection. Change orders proposed by a Builder are reviewed by an Architect and Owner together, as an Architect can evaluate proposed cost changes against contract and drawings. True-cost estimates are only based on Architect-prepared drawings. ONLY SIGN A CONTRACT WITH A BUILDER WHEN COST ESTIMATES ARE BASED ON ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS PREPARED BY AN ARCHITECT. Industry Issues Owners need architect to advise on selection of builders! Our office assisted with NYC apartment renovation projects where builder was retained by owner prior our engagement. This led to negative experience for owners. Not because projects were complex in technical realm, but rather due to our office not having a chance to advise on selecting a builder and owner/builder contract, and therefore working in unregulated environment. Consequently issues occurred: Builders advised on plan layouts there were not code compliant Builders provided inaccurate cost estimate Builders had no adequate understanding of how to read drawings Builders not familiar with construction phase protocols, such as... > How to protect yourself during apartment renovation NYC - hire an architect first to protect your interests. We review contracts, builder payments, and DOB compliance. - Published: 2026-05-07 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/owners-protection/ OWNER'S PROTECTION CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. GOOD PLAN MINIMIZES ADDITIONAL COST DEFINE STRATEGY WITH QUALIFIED PEOPLE Quality assurance protocols correct lack of clarity Owner's overview New York City Building Code will often trigger need for an Architect, which many Owners lack full understanding. Kitchen and Bathroom remodel including replacing tile will require an architect, to give perspective. Removing/adding wall needs an Architect. Many Owners look for a Builder first, not knowing that they need design professional's input on code compliance, approvals and legal contractual aspects of project. Over time, this became pattern, and Builders started abusing this “opportunity” by various false advertisement approaches. How can you prevent penalties for work without permits? CONTACT ARCHITECT FIRST! WHY ARCHITECT? OWNER'S PROTECTION Owners are not typically familiar with construction laws and protocols and can't make informed decisions without an Architect's input. Builders are not authorized to advise Owners. Scope of work, plans, approvals, selection of a builder, contracts and construction phase administration are responsibilities of an Architect to review. AVOID CONFLICT OF INTEREST An Architect advises on Owner/Builder contract to address scope of work, cost and construction schedule and associated contingencies. Builder's proposed contracts can be one-sided and unfavorable for Owner. Industry standards chiseled over 100 years suggest that an Architect advises Owner on apartment renovation matters at large. The Architect first, Builder second approach allows transparency for Owner. Protections can be achieved only with the following protocols. SIGN CONTRACTS WITH... > How much does NYC apartment renovation cost? Explore design options, timelines, team roles, and realistic budgets. Licensed architects. - Published: 2026-04-27 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/design-and-cost/ DESIGN AND COST CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. STRONG DESIGN WORKS BEYOND HIGH-BUDGET POWER OF DESIGN IS IN CREATIVITY, COMPOSITION, MATERIALS AND SHADOWS READ + Floor Plan and Interior Design READ + Approvals and Permitting READ + Construction Phase Timeline 01/ ProgrammingInteractive phase between a client and an Architect to determine a client's wishes and needs based on potential of space. 1 week 02/ DesignArchitect provides proposed floor plans and 3D visuals for client's approval3 weeks 03/ GC selectionSelection of a General Contractor based on an Architect's recommendations and preparation of Owner/GC Contract under an Architect's supervision. 1 week 04/ Co-op/CondoSubmission of drawings and specifications prepared by an Architect and GC's insurances for review. Architect works closely with reviewer to obtain an approval. 2 weeks + 05/ PermittingArchitect prepares and submits permitting applications to Landmark Preservation Commission (if needed) and Department of Buildings2 weeks + 06/ ConstructionArchitect oversees construction progress closely and reviews GC's questions, required submittals and inspects construction site2 months 07/ CloseoutArchitect prepares closing documentation including inspections sign-offs and letter of completion Team Members OwnerOwner has active role on apartment renovation throughout entire process, including approving designs, managing Department of Buildings (DOB) online portal related to Owner's responsibilities (payments and signatures), and issuing payments to project team. ArchitectArchitect advises an Owner on project matters at large. Our responsibility involves assisting with the programming phase, which defines the scope and budget, layout recommendations, assistance with selecting a Builder... > Learn the correct way to renovate NYC apartment step by step: design, DOB approvals, builder selection, and construction phase. Architect-led process and guide explained. - Published: 2026-04-27 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/renovation-steps/ RENOVATION STEPS CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. CLEAR PLAN SAVES TIME AND MONEY ARCHITECT GUIDED PROCESS IS CRITICAL FOR EACH PROJECT where you beginSCHEDULE CALL think about what you needCOMPLEMENTARY FLOOR PLAN CONSULTATIONS explore potentialDEFINE BUDGET AND DESIGN let's do it together! SIGN CONTRACT FOR DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES open your door to our teamSITE SURVEY we listen and design with youDESIGN PHASE let architect talk to builderSTART CONSTRUCTION be informed of progress duringCONSTRUCTION PHASE let's finish! RENOVATION CLOSING DOCUMENTATION ENJOY YOUR SPACE! How We Work NYC Apartment Renovation is specialized department within Lenka Ilic Architecture D. P. C. , a full-service architectural firm based in New York City. Renovation starts with a consultation with an Architect, while a Builder is introduced as project moves forward. Once you are in touch with us during the complimentary consultation, your program and cost are defined with our assistance. START WITH CALL FLOOR PLAN LAYOUT Whether there would be floor plan layout changes, our team would provide a complimentary proposed layout for your review as a starting point of our dialogue. INTERIOR DESIGN Preference on Interior Design provided by our team or another Interior Designer that we can collaborate with. Design Process Designing with our team is interactive process, we listen to you and present possibilities. Ultimately, your Decision Making is what we guide. SEE OUR DESIGN BOARD In-house interior design team selects materials and products in dialogue with you We schedule... > Privacy & cookie policy for - Published: 2026-04-11 - Modified: 2026-06-09 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/privacy/ Privacy & Cookie Policy | Apartment Renovation NYC Skip links Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Design your apartment with an Architect — ARCHITECT OF RECORD— DOB EXPEDITING IN-HOUSE— DOB PROGRESS AND SPECIAL INSPECTION SIGN-OFFS 60 2ND AVENUE, UNIT 2NEW YORK, NY 10003, USAHELLO@APARTMENTRENOVATION.NYC+1 646 331 5444 Pinterest Instagram Youtube Service provided by LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D.P.C. Design & Cost Timeline Team Members Floor Plan and Interior Design Approvals and Permitting Construction Phase Design Board Renovation Steps Basic Steps How We Work Design Process Builder Get Approvals Construction Phase Architect vs Builder Owner’s Protection Owner’s Overview Why Architect Contracts Pre-Qualified Builders Construction Cost Construction Schedule Minimize Risk Construction Cost Industry Issues Builder’s Fake Advertisement Dos and Don’ts High Risk Solution We Offer Common Irregularities Articles Contact Us Service provided by LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D.P.C. Architect of Record DOB Expediting In-House DOB Progress and Special Inspection Sign-Offs 60 2nd Avenue, Unit 2New York, NYHELLO@APARTMENTRENOVATION.NYC +1 646 331 5444 Nice to meet you Email address Message Send Message Toggle navigation Design & Cost Timeline Team Members Floor Plan and Interior Design Approvals and Permitting Construction Phase Design Board Renovation Steps Basic Steps How We Work Design Process Builder Get Approvals Construction Phase Architect vs Builder Owner’s Protection Owner’s Overview Why Architect Contracts Pre-Qualified Builders Construction Cost Construction Schedule Minimize Risk Construction Cost Industry Issues Builder’s Fake Advertisement Dos and Don’ts High Risk Solution We Offer Common Irregularities Articles Legal · Lenka Ilic Architecture D.P.C. Privacy & Cookie Policy How Lenka Ilic... > Expert articles and guides on apartment renovation NYC: permits, costs, architect vs builder, DOB approvals, safety, savings and more. Written by licensed NYC architects. - Published: 2022-04-08 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/ ARTICLES CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. ↗01Asbestos — The Hidden Risk Inside New York’s Buildings ↗02Cost of Renovating an Apartment in NYC (2026 Guide) ↗03NYC Apartment Renovation Guide for Owners ↗04What Is Construction Administration (CA)? > Apartment renovation NYC, architect-led from design to completion. DOB permits, builder selection & owner protection. Schedule free consulting, call us today. - Published: 2022-04-06 - Modified: 2026-06-10 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/ ARCHITECT-LEDNYC APARTMENT RENOVATION! ONLY CORRECT WAY BY LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. Communication between a Builder and an Owner is through an Architect, for transparency and an Owner’s protection. Irregularities and conflicts of interest start when hiring a Builder first. Start with an Architect for clear directions and timelines. In New York a firm can only be an Architect or a Builder, so make sure to verify their license against State records. Start NYC apartment renovation by hiring an Architect to advise on plan layout, design, approvals and permitting, selecting a builder, review of builder’s cost estimates, awarding contract to builder and construction phase protocols. The Architect’s role is to protect an Owner’s interests and review a Builder’s deliverables. A Builder advising is conflict of interest an Owner may not be aware of. Builders are legally not qualified and authorized to advise Owners. WHYARCHITECT ARCHITECT SUGGESTS BUILDERNOT OTHER WAY AROUND COMMON IRREGULARITIES GET INFORMEDBEFORE IT IS TOO LATE HOW WEWORK OVERVIEW ARCHITECT VSBUILDER LEGAL CLARIFICATION ONROLES OF ARCHITECTAND BUILDER ROLES / PRACTICE PRINCIPLES ARCHITECT AS ADVISOR TO OWNERWith Builders it is a widely spread misconception that an architect’s role is to obtain approved drawings only. Architect is an advisor to owner, from the first call to obtaining final letter of completion. BUILDER’S ROLEIS TO BUILDA Builder’s role is in short to build per an Architect’s drawings. Builders are not trained to advise owners... ## Posts > Asbestos in NYC buildings affects nearly 70% of pre-1987 structures. Learn how to test, manage, and safely comply with this hidden risk inside New York's buildings - DEP and DOB asbestos regulations. - Published: 2026-06-03 - Modified: 2026-06-11 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/asbestos-hidden-risk/ ASBESTOS — THE HIDDEN RISKINSIDE NEW YORK’S BUILDINGS CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. Asbestos has been in use from the late 1800s till 1987 and remains one of the most persistent environmental hazards in New York City. Even after decades of regulation, nearly 70% of NYC buildings still contain asbestos in some form. For anyone planning a renovation, alteration, or demolition, understanding how asbestos is managed is essential for both safety and compliance. To be exact, NYC apartment renovations to buildings constructed after April 1, 1987 are exempt from asbestos certification requirements of the DEP, as per NYC DOB website. What Is Asbestos and Why It Was Used Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its heat resistance, tensile strength, and durability. For much of the 20th century, it was widely used in asbestos products across the construction industry, including: Pipe, boiler, and asbestos insulation Asbestos ceiling tiles and floor systems Textured paints and patching compounds Adhesives and vinyl flooring Because of these properties, asbestos was viewed as a “miracle material” in architecture — until its severe health effects became known. Why Asbestos Is Dangerous When left undisturbed, asbestos may pose minimal risk. But once materials are cut, sanded, or damaged, asbestos fibers can become airborne and easily inhaled. These microscopic fibers can cause irreversible damage to the lungs, including: Mesothelioma — a rare, aggressive cancer affecting the lung lining Asbestosis — a chronic lung disease causing tissue... > Cost of renovating apartment NYC ranges from $100–$500+ per sq ft. Our 2026 guide breaks down design fees, construction costs, and filing expenses validated by licensed architects. - Published: 2026-06-03 - Modified: 2026-06-11 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/cost-of-renovating-apartment-nyc/ COST OF RENOVATING AN APARTMENT IN NYC (2026 GUIDE) CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. Renovating an apartment in New York City may appear a complicated process for owners going through it for the first time. NYC apartment renovation costs are shaped by materials and labor, building regulations, co-op/condo board approvals, and Department of Buildings (DOB) requirements. Understanding the true cost of renovating an apartment in NYC requires breaking the project into three primary categories: design fees (architects & engineers), construction costs (labor & materials), and third-party services & filing fees. Average Cost to Renovate an Apartment in NYC The average cost to renovate an apartment in NYC typically ranges from: $100 – $200 per square foot — cosmetic upgrades $150 – $300 per square foot — mid-range renovation $300 – $500+ per square foot — gut renovation Example Total Costs by Apartment Size Studio: $75,000 – $150,000+ 1-Bedroom: $100,000 – $250,000+ 2-Bedroom: $150,000 – $400,000+ Costs vary significantly depending on layout changes, building type, and level of finish. Setting a realistic apartment renovation NYC budget from the start, before signing with a contractor, is one of the most important steps an owner can take. Level of craftsmanship and selection of finishes drive apartment renovation cost in New York City. The common mistake owners make is signing a contract with a builder/contractor prior to engaging an Architect. The true cost of apartment renovation in NYC is based on architectural drawings,... > NYC apartment renovation starts with hiring an Architect — not a contractor. Learn about DOB permits, co-op board approvals, and how to avoid costly mistakes in our NYC apartment renovation complete guide - Published: 2026-06-03 - Modified: 2026-06-11 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/nyc-apartment-renovation-guide-owners/ NYC APARTMENT RENOVATION GUIDE FOR OWNERS CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. Apartment remodeling in NYC requires careful coordination between architectural design, building codes, co-op/condo requirements, sometimes an LPC review, and Department of Buildings (DOB) approvals. Typically the renovation experience is a first-time experience for most owners — whether an Upper West Side or Fifth Avenue pre-war, a Tribeca or SoHo loft, a Greenwich Village townhome, a FiDi conversion, an Upper East Side post-war, or a Gramercy Park apartment. The Costliest Mistake of a Renovation: Hiring a General Contractor First Kitchen remodel in New York City requires an Architect engaged. Some owners tend to retain a General Contractor (GC)/Builder/Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) before hiring an Architect. What are the downsides? Inaccurate Construction Cost Estimates happen frequently before an Architect is involved, as true cost estimates are only provided after a GC reviews the drawings and specifications prepared by an Architect. The idea of a GC estimating a job based on their experience alone is not good practice. Weak Owner-GC Contract occurs because an Architect’s role is an advisor to the owner, including suggesting agreement forms between an Owner and a GC, as noted by The American Institute of Architects (AIA). When an owner signs a contract with the GC prior to retaining an Architect, the owner can be left in an unfavorable agreement. Unregulated Construction Phase means the responsibilities of the General Contractor, Architect, and Owner during the Construction Phase... > Construction administration NYC ensures your Architect oversees the apartment build for code compliance and quality. Learn what CA means and why skipping it is risky. - Published: 2026-06-03 - Modified: 2026-06-11 - URL: https://apartmentrenovation.nyc/articles/what-is-construction-administration-ca/ WHAT IS CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION (CA)? CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D. P. C. Many New York City property owners can’t even begin to imagine how many different ways construction can go depending on the Architect and General Contractor they retained. This article explains what Construction Administration (CA) is, how proper Construction Administration protects owners, occupants, and the public, and why it’s critical in NYC apartment renovation projects. Key Terms: The Meaning of Construction Administration (CA) and Other Definitions Before diving in, here is the meaning of CA and the key terms used throughout to understand this article: Construction Administration (CA) — the final phase of a project, beginning when construction commences and continuing through project completion. During CA, an Architect oversees construction for general conformance with the contract documents. Self-Certify — in NYC, this refers to the Department of Buildings Professional Certification, where an Architect certifies that the plans they file comply with applicable laws, allowing permits to move forward without standard DOB plan examination (though filings can still be audited). Standard of Care — requires architects to perform with the skill and diligence ordinarily exercised by similarly situated professionals. Submittals — documents the contractor submits: shop drawings, product data, and samples. During Construction Administration, an Architect reviews submittals for general conformance with the contract documents before work proceeds. Request for Information (RFI) — a formal written request used during construction to clarify when drawings or specifications are unclear, inconsistent, or when...