Planning Your Job

High-quality construction work on historic buildings requires insightful pre-planning of construction details, experienced management of on-going work, and knowledgeable handling of any questions that arise mid-project, such as how to handle hidden conditions.  Combining his skills as a craftsman, his knowledge of historic structures, and his experience as a general contractor and construction supervises, Paul coordinates planning of projects, timing of work, ordering of materials, scheduling of subcontractors, and cost-sensitive handling of questions that arise so that projects run smoothly. 

DESIGN AND PLANNING  Paul is experienced at designing new living space that allows modern conveniences while maintaining the character of historic homes.  In addition, Paul has experience in preserving or replicating historic building materials to preserve as much historical integrity as desired, including experience providing museum quality work.   Because Paul is experienced in bidding and building, he is able to give cost sensitive suggestions resulting in plans and specifications that are responsive to an owner's budget.  Paul is also experienced at taking a team approach to project planning that incorporates architects and engineers when desired or required.

The scope, and therefore pricing, of design services is as varied as the scope of the projects themselves.  Please call for more in-depth information about how Paul can assist with your design and planning needs.

HIDDEN CONDITIONS  While most if not all of a historic building construction project can be defined and scheduled in advance, work on historic buildings frequently uncovers new issues that may require changes in work and priorities.  For example, past experience tells us that construction work may uncover extensive deterioration and rot in framing members, masonry failure (chimneys, foundations, etc.) and beams sized too small to carry existing loads without further deterioration.  While Paul is skilled at identifying visible signs of such problems, sometimes these conditions cannot be identified prior to the start of work because they are hidden behind walls, ceilings, siding, etc.  In the event that such conditions are uncovered, Paul works with owners, explaining the significance of the find and, if necessary, modifying the scope of work and priorities previously agreed to to accommodate any changing budget priorities. 

OWNER-OCCUPIED CONSTRUCTION ZONES  Living in your home during significant construction is typically stressful.  Some of this stress can be minimized through careful planning - and up-front identification of the owner's concerns and priorities.  To ease the stress of a house remodel, Paul can work with an owner to leave parts of the home in a clean, livable condition while other parts are in various stages of demolition and reconstruction.  In addition, it may be helpful to phase whole-house renovation and to separate construction areas from living areas with temporary, plastic walls.  If timing or special occasions require, or if a house is significantly deteriorated so that it is most efficient and economical to work on the entire house simultaneously, it may be best to consider living elsewhere during the restoration project.