Architect Fred M Fargotstein

We contacted Fred after we bought a house and we wanted to consult about some renovations (large and small) we had in mind for over the next few years. He does a verbal consultation, meaning he goes through the house with you and talks about what might or might not work, and offers some of his own ideas. We chose him based on his award-winning designs, which bring together an old house with modern renovations (our house is 1929). From the beginning, I appreciated Fred's forthrightness in terms of what he would or wouldn't do. Fred is extremely conscientious and I felt we got our money's worth in terms of thinking through what was doable (an addition at some point) and what was more expensive than we thought (a third floor bathroom and dormer). We were disappointed that he was too busy to take on a smaller project that we are ready to do (a powder room), but again, he was forthright about his schedule and work priorities at this time. We would use him in the future for a larger project.

My intention for this consultation was to attempt to organize the projects I wanted to complete on and in my home. I felt that nothing was flowing properly and I was piecing the projects together. It didn't feel as though I had everything organized with respect to what order the work should be done. Mr. Fargotstein was very prompt. I was able to, step by step,, relay to him what I wanted, from the outside to the inside. He gave me a lot of ideas for keeping the integrity of an older home. I was encouraged to even try a few small projects myself. It was a good experience and this was just phase one. I am excited to be doing my future projects with him.

Best money I have ever spent. Fred saved us at least $100,000.00 with his ideas, and he was very friendly to boot! We will consult him again. He gets our highest rating.

We purchased a 90 year-old house that had been "modernized" with a rear porch addition and a variety of other features like aluminum soffit and fascia. It needed a new roof. The windows required restoration or replacement. Architectural details were hidden or painted an uninspired white. The detached garage was functional, but added nothing to the appearance of the property. We were on a tight budget and wanted someone with the right temperament, expertise and aesthetic to guide us. Fred Fargotstein was recommended by a colleague at the Community Design Center of Pittsburgh. In our initial meeting with Fred we talked about the feasibility of a multi-year project. We needed maximum quality for every dollar. He told us about himself and his work with old homes, including the fact that he lives in a vintage Sears and Roebuck Catalog bungalow. We discussed each others expectations of an architect/client relationship. Fred has more than met our needs. He provided drawings and specifications, and recommended contractors and craftsmen. He helped us choose fixtures, wood finishes and paint colors and found a local shop to refinish our original door hardware. There are too many details to list them all. As often happens with an old house, we ran into unexpected problems. Fred worked with the contractor to provide solutions. We have a warm relationship with Fred and absolutely trust him. The exterior of the house is nearly complete and the transformation has drawn raves from both neighbors and strangers passing by.