S2 Architects

We first worked with Nancy and John over ten years ago when they provided the full range of design, drawing, permitting and construction management services for a major $400,000 kitchen, master bath/bedroom and back half of the house renovation. Their work was exceptional, from designing a new floor plan which maximized our space utilization given city code limitations, to riding herd on an extensive cabinetry contract and a general construction contract. At the end of the day the design and execution was nearly flawless and where issues arose with the general contractor they hung with us, even months after the project was completed. This year, we called on S2 to help us think through the remodeling of the last two original rooms in the house, a second bath and bedroom. We agreed to a simply pay for time invested fee arrangement, and again they were great, offering design ideas, drawings where necessary as well as offering suggestions for specialists: cabinets; tile; shower glass etc. Although a miscommunication with the cabinet maker, as to who they should be taking directions/measurement from, resulted in a more strained relationship than in the past, Nancy went out of her way to make sure that we felt that we were treated fairly, even though S2 had to absorb some of the cost out of their own pocket. While we appreciated the gesture, I’m afraid it left a bad taste in their mouth. Fortunately, the house is now done, for if I were to have to find another architectural firm, I’m afraid I’d be hard pressed to find another as creative and as diligent as S2.

They were punctual, always exactly on time. They were pleasant to work with and very helpful. We are very pleased.

We really enjoyed working with S2 Architects, and found both Nancy and John to be very responsive and full of great ideas for transforming our outdoor space. My husband and I felt that the plans as designed by S2 really fit the way we live. The particulars: Our existing deck is enormous, impractical, and falling apart. We wanted a structure that would provide a transition from the house to the yard, rather than a spot to perch above the yard. Nancy and John gave us three options to choose from. Once we decided on a design, they walked us through the options for materials, providing pros and cons for several choices. We were particularly impressed with the level of detail in the plans, including gorgeous railings and storage space underneath the deck. The plans reconfigured our space into a classic-looking, appropriately-scaled area that would lead down to the terrace. The terrace was designed to be the real living space of the yard. It added gentle curves to our rectangular plot, and a connecting walkway helped transition from the back gate to the rest of the yard. The storage shed was what really sold us on S2 Architect's plan. We have no garage and no alley, and did not want to build a detached garage because that would have meant having a driveway break up the yard. We decided that a shed for storing our bikes and a lawnmower would meet our needs. The shed that Nancy and John designed echoes the steep pitch of our roof, and includes great details like herringbone millwork on the two sets of double doors. Throughout the process, Nancy and John were great with answering all our questions. They were very flexible when it came to tinkering with the plans, and they worked in tandem with our landscaper to make sure that everything would come out just right. Their experience and thoughtfulness were huge assets. We are very much looking forward to completing this project!

They were tremendous to work with. Their pricing was fair. They were responsive and timely for the obstacles that came up. Best of all, the plans they designed passed through the zoning and building permit stage without any major problems or delays.