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At the Intersection of Art, Architecture & Design
Thoughts on Home Design & Remodeling
  Issue: February 2009
In This Issue
- Project of the Month
- Cost-Saving Tip of the Month
- Let's Talk Remodeling
- It's All About The Details
Let's Talk Remodeling
Issue:
 

I got a call the other day from a homeowner asking if we would draw up permit documents for him.  It turns out he had already drawn elevations and floor plans sufficient to get  local historic preservation approval and was planning to do most of the carpentry and finish work himself.  He thought he needed a licensed contractor or architect to get the permit.  

Response:
 

Instead, with our guidance, he got the permits himself.  We reviewed his plans, walked him through the permitting process and the additional items needed, and even referred tradesmen appropriate for his particular needs.  He paid us for a few hours of time; we saved him at least $5,000.  We also told him about a homeowner's electrical exam he could take in his jurisdiction so that he could do the electrical work himself  -- saving more money. 

 

Talk with us about your plans;  we can help you do smart home improvements and re-modeling --  within your budget. Learn more ...

Braitman Design/Build
Jackie Braitman: Architectural Designer - General Contractor
Jackie Braitman
Architectural Designer &
General Contractor
Licensed & Insured
MHIC License #125978
301-891-3800
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Welcome to the premier issue of At the Intersection of Art, Architecture & Design.  Each month we'll provide advice and inspiration plus low-cost design tips on home design and remodeling.  Please visit my design blog for more ideas; I welcome your questions and thoughts. 

Project of the Month:
Remodel: 1920's Tudor Revival
Home RemodelingWithout adding a additional square foot of space, this modest Tudor revival home in the Friendship Heights neighborhood of Washington, DC lives large.  Whether it's a family dinner or an open house for 100, the house feels spacious yet intimate.  With garden rooms on 3 sides, the house is  like a retreat from the busy commercial area a short block away from.  Read more ...
Cost-Saving Design Tip of the Month:
A Coat (or two) of Paint
Home RemodelingWhat a difference a coat of paint can make! The original knotty pine paneling made for a dreary non-descript stairway All we did was paint. 
Read more ...
It's All About The Details:
The Importance of Rhythm
Home RemodelingProper rhythm and proportion help a home “feel right”. I’m sure you’ve walked into spaces that instinctively felt right — with each part in the right place and in relationship to the whole. You can also probably remember walking into a tract home that felt awkward and unbalanced.  Read more ...