CFAF Launches New Program for Homeowners with What to Expect When You’re Renovating

Forty homeowners, contractors, and architects gathered at the Center for Architecture on 02.13.13 for the first offering of the Center for Architecture Foundation’s (CFAF) newest program, “What to Expect When You’re Renovating.” This program, part of the CFAF’s initiative to offer more adult programs geared towards the general public, covered the basics of renovating an apartment in NYC. Architect Carol Gretter, AIA, RA, LEED AP, began the workshop by covering the different members of the renovation team, listing the roles and responsibilities of the client, architect, contractor, and consultants, stressing the importance of making time for meetings and the need for an expeditor.

She also covered the benefits of hiring an architect. Their professional training and experience is instrumental in understanding building codes and design, helping to avoid pitfalls and delays and keeping the project moving forward – not to mention having a great network of consultants and contractors whose work they trust and can recommend.

Gretter reviewed each step of the design process in detail, explaining how the project moves from the initial meeting through design development to construction and post-construction.  Legal expert Melissa Billig covered what you need to know about contracts. She outlined the top 10 terms to include in the owner/architect contract, detailing such items as the scope of work, ownership of design, fees and dispute resolution, and the owner/contractor contract. They also discussed pricing and negotiation and laid out some helpful tips for construction and post-construction management.  The workshop ended with plenty of time for questions from the audience.

CFAF would like to thank our media sponsor, Build It Green NYC, a great resource for affordable, salvaged building materials.

The next session of “What to Expect When You’re Renovating” is scheduled to take place at the Center for Architecture 04.16.13, 6-8pm. Seats are filling up quickly so reserve your spot today!

Event: What to Expect When You’re Renovating
Location: Center for Architecture, 02.13.13
Speakers: Carol Gretter, AIA, RA, LEED AP, Principal, Carol Gretter Architects; Melissa T. Billig, Esq., Partner, Construction & Design Practice at Ingram Yuzek Gainen Carroll & Bertolotti, LLP
Organizer: Center for Architecture Foundation
Sponsor: Build It Green NYC