SERVICES
No two clients or homes are exactly the same. Tailored specifically to each client's budget and goals, I offer a wide range of services. What kind of help do YOU need?
Will my idea for a remodeling project work in my home?
Do you want to find out if it's possible to convert your garage into an accessory dwelling unit, add a bathroom to your attic, create a family room in your basement, or to add a second floor to your house? We can look at your specific situation, and I can talk you through the details to help you quickly determine what it would take to make your dream a reality.
What if I'm planning to buy a house with the idea of remodeling?
Find out before you buy if it's really going to be as easy as it seems to add two more bedrooms to the second floor or to remove that wall to create a larger kitchen.
How can I meet my goals within my budget?
Do you know what's not working, but are unsure how to solve the problem efficiently? Do you have a project in mind, but are unsure if it's a $5,000 or a $50,000 upgrade? I can help with with creative problem solving and reality checking.
What if I'm not sure what my options are for a remodel?
Before you spend thousands on a remodel, let's explore the different options so you are confident that those dollars are buying the best possible solution.
What if I need construction documents for my project?
Construction documents are the building instructions for your project. The more detailed and better coordinated those drawings are, the less you will spend on expensive misunderstandings, mistakes, and do-overs during construction. I do all of my own drafting, and pride myself on creating a well-coordinated and appropriately detailed set of documents.
Can I break my project down into phases that work for my life and my budget? What if can't afford to do it all at once?
Creating a master plan that includes all of the parts of the project can help identify a logical order for constructing the pieces one at a time. This type of planning can help you to know where to add extra structure and stub-in plumbing while remodeling your basement so that you don't have to tear out the recently finished family room when it's time, years later, to add that bathroom and dormer to the second floor.
What if I need a contractor or need help understanding estimates and bids?
Need a recommendation? I have strong and lasting relationships with several contractors and can help you find a good fit for your project and personality. Already have a contractor in mind? I'm always happy to build a new relationship.
Residential bids are non-standard and can be confusing to compare. I can help you to ask the right questions and to make an informed decision.
What if I live in a historic district?
Yes, you can still remodel if you know the rules! With many approved historic reviews under my belt, I can help navigate the lengthy application process, and to gauge the likelihood of approval before you invest in the expensive application fee.
What if I have a project in mind for a really tight space?
In an existing home, being able to fit a stairway or a bathroom into a tight space can often make or break a project. If it can be done, I can figure out how to do it, and it often requires a building code appeal. When space is tight, knowing how to successfully complete a building code appeal can make all the difference in allowing you to create a legal and safe stairway to your basement or to fit in a bathroom in the attic.
What if I need a building permit for my project?
I can obtain a building permit for your project the old fashioned way or, if you're located in the City of Portland's jurisdiction, I can help you to skip the line and avoid having your permit application collect dust on the desk of a plans reviewer by setting you up with a contractor who's in the FIR (Field Issuance Remodeling) program. The FIR program is an expedited permitting process in which a specific building inspector is assigned to a certified contractor. The building permit is issued by the inspector in the field. This means that, when approving the permit, the inspector you're working with is fully aware of any quirkiness that your particular situation presents. This also means that the same inspector will perform each inspection, avoiding the inevitable differences of opinion between inspectors that can be a time consuming and stressful part of the conventional permitting and inspections process.
What if I want built-in cabinetry?
Want a new kitchen, bathroom vanity, window seat, or built-in buffet? Whether you're going custom, or are trying to stay within conventional dimensions so that you can bid your project out to different manufacturers, I can help.
What if I need help selecting colors, materials or fixtures for my project?
Do you think you've got this part figured out but want a second opinion? Are you in love with a particular tile, but are discovering that it doesn't have any trim pieces? Do you have an idea of what you like but aren't quite sure how to pull it off? I can match you with the right showroom to suit your style, and can help you to pull the finishes together so that they meet your vision.
What if questions come up during construction?
During construction, I provide as much help as is needed to ensure that construction progresses smoothly. I make myself readily available to answer questions as they come up, and love to collaboratively creative problem solve when things don't go as planned.