"The Curtis Group was hired to Design, Contract Manage and build an addition as well as remodel Kitchen, replace roof and paint both exterior and interior of main house and addition. Both Eric and Scott and their entire Team were excellent to work with."
"My wife and I were considering having some remodeling done to our house but we were not sure how it would all work. A friend recommended we hire an architect or draftsman to help with the ideas. We submitted the request through Angie's and found Richard from iCornerstone. We live in Tyngsborough and he came to our house from Weymouth and spent the day measuring everything in the house and provided us with an outstanding renderings and diagrams of our house from all the floors. We didn't have any original drawings and neither did the town wit details. Richards work was exemplary and nothing short of outstanding. He really knows his stuff and he kept in contact the entire time. We asked for the changes and he made them to a second diagram with a 3D layout we could show to the contractors for the remodel. I highly recommend Richard and iCornerstone for any of your needs."
"Our house was a 1955 ranch-style house with 3 bedrooms, one bath, kitchen, and living/dining room that we moved into in 1995. We had been looking to add a second bathroom and had originally worked with an architect from NH to do a modest front and rear bump out to give us more room to fit in a second bathroom. This architect had to withdraw from the job and recommended David Kinsella of TBC. David initially made some modest changes to the plan that made sense. After somefurther discussion, in which my wife and I raised the possibility of a larger scale project to modernize the style of the house, David developed a plan that essentially rebuilt the house except for our previously remodeled kitchen and original foundation. This new plan converted our house into modern design with a more open floor plan, completely new roof line, loft space, re-finished basement (and the second bathroom). David was able to fit this into an only slightly expanded footprint in order to comply with town regulations. Throughout the process, David kept our budget in mind and would typically present different price options for us to choose from to allow us to come up with a reasonable comprise between price with style. In addition TBC worked with the town to make sure our design stayed within our zoning and conservation restrictions. After deciding to go ahead with the project, we interviewed several contractors and decided that TBC brought us the best value for our money and would also allow David to oversee the project as needed. We started the project in June 2011 and completed the project in May 2012. The project did take several months longer than expected, but did stay on budget. The major problem that occurred that delayed the project was that in the summer of 2011, the original subcontracted framers were being sent to other jobs by their boss even though TBC was told they would be coming to our job. Hence, instead of working full time on our job, they were working less than half time. Eventually TBC had to fire them and find a new contractor to step in. At the time we felt that TBC should have replaced them sooner, but perhaps this was difficult due to contractual obligations. (We also found this first group of framers were slobs who did not have much regard for the fact that we were still living in the house.) By the end of summer 2011, the house was not completely framed and roofed and number of rain storms (including hurricane Irene) slowed down progress further. In mid-October we were still living in the part of the house and we agreed at this point that we would move out to allow for a more efficient work flow. From this point construction generally proceeded ahead, except for a few delays do to weather and scheduling conflicts that arose for other subcontractors, no doubt due to the significant delay caused by the no-show framers. In the end the house is beautiful and works for us better than we could have imagined. While the house has not expanded much in terms of square feet, the open floor plan and high ceiling/roof line combined with increased natural lighting gives a much more expansive feeling inside. From the curb, the house has modern angular green metal roof with cedar siding and one has to look hard to find any resemblance to the original house. At the completion of of the project, TBC was very responsive to completing punch-list items and other minor issues that have arisen over the past year. While my wife and I certainly had stressful times during the renovation (and certainly did a lot of second guessing our decision to renovate rather than move), we always felt that David had a personal interest in getting the job done correctly and making sure that we were happy in the end. In that regard, David was very accessible by email or phone before, during, and after the work. In summary, David Kinsella provided the creativity to design a renovation plan that was truly transforming for our house and TBC was then able to see the plan through to successful completion."
"Every project we have done with Classical Homes has been an excellent experience. The design aspects have been substantial, and have been executed by the architect with attention paid both to the aesthetics and to the functionality of the space. Time was taken to listen to our input, and to incorporate our thoughts into the final design when appropriate. The builder supervisor likewise oversaw the work of his sub contractors with care and concern, and proceeded in an efficient and orderly manner. Costs were outlined in advance, and contingencies provided for. Both of these professionals at Classical Homes were committed to the highest possible standards. We would have no hesitancy in using use them again should opportunities arise."
"Lenny and Nick went above my expectations! I told them what I wanted, Nick sketched out a plan, and it was perfect! My basement is absolutely beautiful! They were reliable, prompt, and told me everything that was going on! I would highly recommend this company for any remodel! Bravo guys!"
"We started using these guys over the summer. Their work is professional, thorough and always on time. The owner is very personable and seems committed to keeping his customers happy. Best landscape experience I've had in the Boston area to date."
"O'Regan Construction are the absolute best contractors we've ever hired! We were very lucky to find them. It made what first seemed to be an overwhelming project, a fun adventure to watch come together. Paul's forethought throughout the project was amazing. He took care of every detail, bringing every specific contractor as well as the Town (permits and inspections) together. They are the most polite conscientious team I've ever had the pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend them and have already done so having my family hire them with the same highly professional results."
Sandra Curtis Design LLC is an award winning, full service residential interior design studio. Whether your project is large or small, our mission is to create beautiful, customized interiors, spaces that reflect the people who live in them. We provide our clients with design consultation and products for their home. From new construction?s specifications and space-planning, full-blown renovations to the final phase of decorating and accessorizing, we can help you. We are a resource for related interior products including flooring, cabinetry, counter tops, blinds, window treatment, lighting, wall treatment, area rugs, artwork and furniture.
"Ronaldo and his crew are excellent. His pricing is reasonable, workers are professional, and work quality exceptional. I'd highly recommend Ronaldo to anyone looking for landscaping related services."
In most cases, yes, hiring a draftsperson will be more affordable than the cost of hiring an architect. However, it’s important to note that the reason is because these professionals provide different services. Draftspersons are more affordable because they do more general mock-ups that help align your contractors with your vision for your home renovation project. An architect will provide more detailed drawings that include technical specifications, structural considerations, and even mechanical components, like electrical box and HVAC ductwork placement.
Costs vary depending on project complexity and scope. Architects generally charge a percentage of the total budget or an hourly rate for their services.
You have three options in terms of professionals who can draw up blueprints: a draftsperson, an architect, or a structural engineer. A draftsperson can sometimes draw up plans for new construction, but they more often work from approved plans for alterations or to provide 3D drawings. Architects are usually the best option for standard residential construction projects. Structural engineers might be necessary for custom home builds or for alterations that could affect your home’s structural integrity. Draftsmen cost the least of the three, followed by architects and then structural engineers.
The best way to start designing a house is to know what you want before designing. Making a list of your biggest priorities in a home will help. Designing a house without an idea of what you need or want in a home will lead to many trials and errors that could make it harder to figure out what you need in your design.
Choose an architect based on their portfolio, experience with similar projects, client reviews, and whether their design approach matches your vision.
The Concord, NH homeowners’ guide to architectural services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Wondering how much hiring an architect cost? Discover architect prices, cost factors, and money-saving tips to help you plan your home project with confidence.
Floor plans can help you visualize a space and are useful in home construction and design. Learn how much a floor plan costs and what affects the price.
Depending on where you live, you may be legally required to hire an architect for an addition. Here’s why an architect may end up saving you money and time.