OSSOLINSKI ARCHITECTS

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We hired Ossolinski Architects for a whole-house renovation on our 110-year-old primary home. We decided to hire an architect, as opposed to a design-build firm, because we wanted to have someone working for me who would act as much an advocate with the builder as a designer. However, in the end we most value the design services provided. The project turned out to far exceed my expectations in terms of what could be done with this house. The house is now unique, makes optimal use of space, and seamlessly respects the age of the house while also providing a modern aesthetic. From the beginning we were impressed with the principle architect's thoughtfulness as he surveyed the house, noted views from upstairs windows and immediately appreciated the possibilities for the house. He was patient as we needed to interrupt the project for about a year, and was quick to help us get back on track when we were ready to take it up again. He and his associate listened to us and incorporated our preferences but also included their perspectives as well, which resulted in an amazing finish. We also never felt as though our project was less important than any others being worked on. The project ranged from the mundane (rewiring, adding central A/C, new windows, structural repairs) to more exciting elements such as brand new kitchen, master suite, and living area. Ossolinski Architects helped with selections at every step, including paint colors and other finishes; this can be a daunting task and their experience and talents were a huge help and gave us fantastic results. Hiring Ossolinski Architects was well worth the money in terms of both added value to the house and everyday enjoyment.

As out lined above, the this experience went far better than we ever expected. Dos: if you go for a three month visit to family, come back periodically to see how things are going. It was reassuring to us and seemed to be appreciated by those working on the job. If you like the way something is being handled - say so. Don'ts: Don't keep your neighbors in the dark about what you're up to. Sit down with them, go over the plans, explain the dates, listen for their concerns about having the street cluttered with trucks, etc and apprise the architect and building contractor of people's worries and how to respond.

We are delighted with our renovation project. The pleasure of cooking in our new beautiful and stylish kitchen has quickly erased the memories of having to do without a kitchen for a few months. Our new kitchen has light-colored cabinets, dark counters, dramatic lighting, a smart floor, and top-line appliances. The placement of the cabinets, appliances and the island make the kitchen look spacious, and my family is able to work in it without bumping into each other. Besides its sleekness, the spatial orientation of the design is something we really like about the renovation. We should also mention that we love our unique island design which gives the kitchen a really custom-crafted look. To achieve the novel design, Matt Ossolinski worked closely with the builder's subcontractor on engineering details. On the process, prior to finalizing the design, we had a few meetings with the principal architect to discuss design options; he took us to suppliers to check out available options for the construction materials (I suppose in order to help us visualize the texture and color of our choices, and to understand also the tradeoffs between price and quality). This early process was enormously helpful to us. The architects were extremely patient and flexible with respect to working around our busy schedule. It was in large part due to their prodding that the project took off when it did. We also felt that we were fully informed about the process of the construction. We felt that we could always raise questions and concerns, and we were confident that those would be given the attention they deserved. We are so pleased with the services of the firm that we have already sought additional help on other renovation projects.

At our first meeting to go over his designs, Ossolinski showed me 5 plans, 3 of which were over my budget (by $200,000.00 to $350,000.00). When I received Ossolinski's bill, I tried to work out an amicable solution to resolving the issue of the plans that did not meet my budget. Ossolinski then filed a lien on my house. I filed for Arbitration with the American Arbitration Association as required by our contract, which cost $700.00. The arbitrator found that Ossolinski had overcharged me and required Ossolinksi to reimburse me over $1,500.00. The arbitrator also found that Ossolinski had no legal basis for filing a lien on the house and required Ossolinski to remove the lien and send me proof that the lien was removed. Although Ossolinski sent me the required check, he has not complied with the requirement to show that he removed the lien (leading me to believe that he never actually filed it, i.e. he lied about that). Needless to say, I do NOT recommend hiring this architect. By the time we went to arbitration, Ossolinski claimed that I owed him an additional $4,560.67 (including $350 for attorneys and over $1000 for the arbitration). When I was trying to negotiate an amicable solution to this mess, he said he would never return a penny of my retainer, so I doubt he was "glad" when the arbitrator found he was not entitled to the additional $4500 and ordered him to return $1,500 (as he obviously was overcharging me by over $6,000). The arbitrator's order required him to send me proof that the lien was lifted and I still don't have a copy of the release he claims to have. When it became clear that he could not work within a budget, I hired another architect and I now have a wonderful new home (that came in on budget). I have since learned that several of his nearby projects went over budget. I hope this information prevents others from wasting their time and money.

Matt is extremely responsive to his customers. His drawings are very detailed and as a result there were very few change orders (except those where we actually changed our mind). On a $290,000 contract with the contractor, the change orders were less than $30,000. Because he is very detail oriented and has a very good visual eye, he came up with some great recommendations. He is also very interested in input from his clients. Finally, he is very easy to work with and a nice person. You will enjoy working with him and will be pleased with the result.