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Hot Topic | renovation

NYC Renovation Chronicles: White shoe contractors, minor league pros & prima donnas

by David Katz, Architect | 10/28/10 - 7:34 AM

In this economy, just about any contractor – no matter how ill-equipped for your particular renovation – will promise stunning results. Be on guard for used car salesmanship:...
Ask an Expert: Is central air necessary in a high-end renovation?

by Teri Karush Rogers | 10/26/10 - 8:02 AM

Q: Is it necessary to install central a/c in a high-end renovation? How much does it cost, and what’s the premium on resale?
A. Most buyers expect...
Help your apartment get a grip on NY

by | 10/15/10 - 10:48 AM

With all the press this week on how taxing life is in the big city, contemplating...

NYC Renovation Chronicles: Choosing the perfect contractor

by David Katz, Architect | 10/14/10 - 7:00 AM

Choosing a contractor is sort of like hailing a cab during rush hour. You’re happy to get one, but once inside, you’re stuck there for the ride, no matter how smelly or...
Ask an Expert: Appliance store won't honor our deal

by Teri Karush Rogers | 10/05/10 - 1:06 PM

Q. In July I ordered a Sub-Zero refrigerator, a Viking range and Miele dishwasher from a local appliance dealer, to be installed in my kitchen...
NYC Renovation Chronicles: The difference between a good client and a nightmare

by David Katz, Architect | 9/30/10 - 7:10 AM

Every architect I know has war stories about problem clients – people who demand constant changes, who always argue, who never trust anyone, or who just rub them the wrong way...

NYC Renovation Chronicles: Pre-construction tips for the uninitiated

by David Katz, Architect | 9/16/10 - 7:16 AM

As an architect who has completed dozens of New York City apartment renovations over the years, I am still cautious crossing the pre-construction minefield.
...
Should I paint my exposed brick wall before selling?

by Teri Karush Rogers | 9/07/10 - 7:15 AM

Q. I own a junior one-bedroom in Manhattan that I'd like to put on the market within the next year. The apartment overall is in mint condition and I wouldn't expect whomever...
Can I put recessed lighting in a prewar beamed ceiling?

by Teri Karush Rogers | 8/31/10 - 6:43 AM

Q. Is it possible to put recessed lighting into a prewar beamed ceiling, or does the ceiling need to be lowered first?

A. You will likely need to drop at...

Inside Story: My landlord poisoned me

by An anonymous Manhattan renter as told to Teri Rogers | 8/26/10 - 7:51 AM

I had just moved to Manhattan, and I found what seemed like the perfect studio.

It was on the first floor of a gorgeous 18th century brownstone on a street of...
Bright Idea: Soundproof your windows & get 30% back at tax time

by Annabelle Lee | 8/13/10 - 8:45 AM

I live in an apartment situated three-quarters of the way down the block, just where vehicles start slowing for the corner traffic light. I am all too familiar with the nerve-...
Cost to renovate a NYC bathroom

by Penny Fallmann May, Architect | 8/12/10 - 6:57 AM

The Situation

You can’t live another day with the hospital green tiles (circa 1970) or the faux marble vinyl tiles that match in your current...
The hidden costs of a New York City renovation

by Teri Karush Rogers | 7/30/10 - 7:10 AM

In real estate as in groceries, pretty much everything is more expensive in New York City.

So it's no surprise that renovation jobs in New York City tend to cost a...
Is Sub-Zero still NYC's "It" icebox?

by Penny Fallmann May, Architect | 7/22/10 - 7:04 AM

The Situation

With New York City kitchens tending toward the smallish side, every design and product decision becomes that much more important. The right (or...
The inside scoop on competitive bidding

by Penny Fallmann May, Architect | 7/08/10 - 7:27 AM

The Situation

In the current economic client, most New York City contractors are willing to negotiate on big and small jobs. But unless your...
Expediters: A profession built on a Kafka-esque nightmare

by Teri Karush Rogers | 7/01/10 - 6:27 AM

The Expediter is one of the more mysterious characters involved in a New York City renovation.

This is the person who collects anywhere from $2,000-3,000, plus...
Keeping your contractor honest

by Penny Fallman May, Architect | 6/24/10 - 7:07 AM

The Situation
What’s the secret to hiring an honest contractor? Good references can help, particularly from design professionals who have done numerous projects with...
How not to alienate your neighbors when you renovate

by Penny Fallman May, Architect | 6/10/10 - 5:38 AM

The Situation

Most New Yorkers who own their apartments understand that enduring other people's renovations comes with the vertical territory....
NYC Real(i)ty Speak: "Incredible amenities" = Monthly charges will ruin you

by Veronica X. | 6/04/10 - 10:38 AM

This week we introduce "Veronica X.," a real-life Manhattan apartment hunter whose "NYC Real(i)ty Speak" glossary--which began as Facebook status-updates...
The inside scoop on replacing your wood floors

by Penny Fallmann May, Architect | 5/27/10 - 7:31 AM

The Situation

Most wood floors can be refinished at least 5 times, and depending on wear or tear, can go 15 to 20 years between facelifts.

...

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