The Remodel Architect

Description of Work: Architectural floorplan layout for adding a 5th bedroom to our house

Description of Work: We had structural questions regarding installing windows in a bathroom remodel, and needed an architect's input.

Description of Work: We recently completed a fairly large remodeling project, converting a small, ceiling-constrained gameroom over the garage to a full ceiling second-story multi-purpose room almost 3x the original size with a stair-accessible loft room. We wanted a large space for exercising, hobbies, and plants, and also wanted to take better advantage of some the views of a lake and golf course near (but not adjacent to) our house. My husband's hobby is astronomy so we were also looking to add a retractable skylight. Cost was also a key consideration, as we are both planning to retire in the near future. We are also both very busy professionals, and I travel a lot, so we needed someone who could meet with us in the evenings and weekends, and who would be willing to develop plans over a number of months. We chose Brian Porter as the architect based on a friend's recommendation and had instant rapport when we met. We walked through the area to be remodeled and explained in general our objectives. Brian offered up several ideas, listening and adapting as we talked through them. In subsequent consultations, he developed some rough sketches, which we worked through together, and then formal plans. Initial estimates from remodeling contractors were higher than we wanted to pay, so Brian worked with us to alter the plans to still achieve our main objectives, but reduce the cost. He also met with the Garland city building code representative to review the plans (no changes were required), and also made sure the plans were compliant with our Homeowners Association code.