Design your apartment with an Architect
— INTERIOR DESIGN
— ARCHITECT OF RECORD
— CO-OP/CONDO APPROVALS ASSISTANCE
— DOB EXPEDITING IN-HOUSE
— DOB PROGRESS AND SPECIAL INSPECTION SIGN-OFFS
— LETTER OF COMPLETION/CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY ASSISTANCE
Service provided by LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D.P.C.
Service provided by LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D.P.C.
ARCHITECT GUIDED PROCESS IS CRITICAL FOR EACH PROJECT
Apartment Renovation NYC outlines an architect-led, step-by-step process for completing an NYC apartment renovation. It is a misconception that contractors can provide estimates without an Architect's drawings. The first step is to engage an Architect to define the scope and provide the project's cost estimates and timeline. Even small projects' scopes are defined by the building code.
PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE
The process begins with a consultation, floor-plan planning, site review, architectural and interior design, and material selections. The architect then assists with selecting a qualified contractor, suggests construction administration protocols to be reflected in an agreement for Owner to sign with a contractor, and coordinates co-op/condo, DOB, and, when required, LPC approvals.
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
During construction, the architect oversees progress, reviews construction schedules, payment applications, change orders, submittals, and required inspections. The process concludes with DOB closing documentation. Throughout, the architect acts as the owner’s advisor, helping manage quality, cost, communication, approvals, and construction risk through project completion.
Apartment Renovation NYC provides in-house DOB expediting and performs DOB Progress and Special Inspections required for apartment renovations.
CONTENT PREPARED AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FULL-SERVICE NYC-BASED ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE LENKA ILIC ARCHITECTURE D.P.C.
Bathroom before remodel.
Bathroom after remodel.
Interactive phase to determine an Owner's program and needs based on potential of space.
Architect develops proposed floor plans and 3D visualizations for client's approval.
Selection of a contractor from pre-screened contractors database. We advise on form of agreement between Owner and contractor for Owner's protection.
Submission of drawings and specifications prepared by our office; and contractor's insurances for review. Architect works closely with reviewer to obtain an approval.
We prepare and submit permitting applications to the Landmark Preservation Commission (if needed) and Department of Buildings. Lenka, our Principal Architect, communicates with city agencies till approvals are obtained.
Our architectural team oversees construction progress closely and reviews contractor's questions, required submittals and inspects construction site periodically.
We prepare closing documentation including inspection reports and sign-offs; and a letter of completion. One of advantages of working with us is in-house DOB inspection service.
Designing with our team is an interactive process, we listen to you and present possibilities. Ultimately, your decision making is what we guide.
Hiring a contractor on your own is high risk. Contractors are not authorized to advise Owners on floor plan layout, approvals requirements; and most importantly cost estimates not based on construction drawings are not true cost estimates and shall not be used as basis for Owner/contractor agreement.
Construction laws and industry protocols are not meant for Owners to navigate alone. Choosing a contractor together with your Architect is the recommended approach. We advise on construction administration protocols to be reflected in Owner/contractor agreement.
PROTECT YOURSELFOwner provides the building's Alteration Agreement, allowing our team to coordinate the review process.
Items submitted:
Our team addresses any comments board may have till approval is obtained.
Interior NYC Apartment Renovations are most times considered "application of no-effect" and approved within 3-5 days.
An Architect is required to submit an application to LPC.
Owner or Co-op/Condo Board representative signs on Portico online portal.
After Co-op/Condo approval is obtained, our team prepares DOB application(s) and submits them for review. We provide in-house DOB expediting.
DOB processing fees are automatically generated once the application(s) are prepared - the Owner is responsible for payment. Owner or Co-op/Condo Board representative signs on the DOB NOW online portal.
Typical review processing time is 2-3 weeks and may take longer. Our office responds to any DOB comments until approval is obtained.
Once the applications are approved by DOB, the Builder requests Permit card(s).
Lower East Side apartment gut renovation.
Upper West Side kitchen remodel.
Gramercy Park apartment gut renovation.
Keep your project moving, prevent delays and unexpected costs during construction phase
Our team is involved during the construction phase. We oversee the work of a contractor, address concealed conditions, and inform an Owner of progress.
By implementing industry standard protocols we are able to oversee the construction phase in a controlled manner which protects Owners against delays and increased construction cost.
Per NYC Administrative Code, Inspection Agencies shall be acceptable to the Architect of Record. Having both entities represented by one firm consolidates a renovation project. We design with inspection requirements in mind.
DOB requires Progress and Special Inspections identified for each job filing by an Architect of Record.
THE STANDARD THAT PROTECTS YOU