Tips for Choosing an Architect

If you are seriously considering remodeling your home, calling in an experienced, licensed architect should be your first step. An architect has the training and skill to create a detailed design based on your particular needs and wishes. The design should complement the style of your existing home, be scaled appropriately to the property and fit in with the surrounding neighborhood.

I recently had the good fortune to work with John Woodruff, a licensed architect who specializes in home renovation. John has a wealth of experience in carefully listening to and understanding what his clients envision. He believes that what makes an architect valuable is “the ability to synthesize a vision into a project that the homeowner can see and understand”.

Architects are skilled at seeing not only the big picture but also all the steps along the way from concept to completion. An experienced architect will save you time and money during the job by tailoring the plans that the contractor can execute quickly and, in the long run, by ensuring the work is done properly, up to code, and that it culminates in a finished product that is attractive for resale. John has recently finished a full renovation from the foundation up, for a client of mine. It is 73 Atherstone in Scarsdale, our “featured property” this month. John’s trademark attention to detail is in every corner of this “new” home.

Because building and zoning laws vary greatly from town to town, John’s first recommendation to homeowners looking for an architect is to find one who is local and very familiar with the relevant zoning and building requirements. In fact, the first thing John does when he consults with a client is check out the zoning requirements and run the square footage numbers to make sure the intended work can be done without running into problems. He also recommends a foolproof method for finding an architect with a good track record:

“Ask the architect to show you the last 2 or 3 jobs they’ve done - if a former client is willing to show you the work, you will easily learn whether or not they are happy with the way the job turned out.”

Architects prepare the documentation necessary to acquire building permits and handle the paperwork that needs to be filed with the building departments. Having the documentation handled properly will save the homeowner time and money, particularly when it is time to sell. But, as John explains, additions and renovations are sometimes done without the required filings or permits - it may be an extra bedroom, a closet remodeled into a bathroom, a deck or a pool. In those instances, when the home is being readied for sale, an architect will be called in to “legalize” the work, by getting the required plans and permits filed with the town. When you are thinking of selling, give the Marciano Realty office a call and we can review your existing house vs. original plans to see if an architect is required.

John Woodruff, is a licensed architect with 25 years’ experience in lower Westchester. His practice is limited to New Rochelle, Mamaroneck, Scarsdale and Pelham, but he can make recommendations to other architects in Westchester. He lives and works in the same community and takes pride in making his clients happy. Born and raised in New Rochelle, where his father was an architect before him, he has been interested in architecture for as long as he can remember. He finds his work fun and exciting and enjoys providing a great service to people. John has found his niche in home renovation but also works on new construction projects. Call John @914.633.1095 http://johnwoodruffarchitect.com/

In the meantime, The Marciano Realty Team is standing by to help you discover your real estate needs and your budget. If you would like to explore some opportunities, give us a call at 914-721-0038 or call my cell at 914-804-6098.

Michael J. Marciano

Keller Williams NY Realty
120 Bloomingdale Rd Ste. 101
White Plains, NY 10605

Office: 914-721-0038 Cell: 914-804-6098

marcianokw@gmail.com