Creating the New Floor Plan

After selecting our architect, we got to work immediately. The first step was to measure everything. We needed measurements for the house and land. The architect’s team handled the house measurements. They came in and measured all three floors. The team then provided all information to the architect. He used that to create the current floor plan. This was the foundation for our discussions. For the land, we had to obtain a plot survey. A plot survey shows the dimensions of the lot so that the architect can ensure the project remains within city code. We were lucky that the prior owner had done this already.

Below is the drawing of the original floor plan. This shows the original duplex structure. The first and second floors are identical and two separate dwellings.

While the architect was drawing the current floor plans, I worked on creating a project brief. The purpose of the brief was to document what we wanted to accomplish in the renovation. I included potential floor plans, inspirational images of all the rooms and a list of all must have items. I did this to help communicate what we wanted. This helps the process be more efficient. It also protects you against needing additional hours from the architect, which would come at a cost.

Prior to meeting with the architect to discuss the project, I sent him the project brief. He said this made it easier to create the initial plans. It created a clearer picture of what we wanted. Once I received the initial drawings I made notes, questions and proposed changes for our first meeting. The meeting was a lot of fun and interesting to hear how they made our ideas come to life.

Though they are the professionals its important to speak up in these meetings. This avoids future change orders that can be expensive. As the owner I also know the house more intimately than the architect. A great example is the extra window they put in the master bedroom. On paper it’s a great idea. But after taking a closer look, I realized that window would look directly in my neighbors home. Obviously, not what we want. The architect doesn’t have all these details. Its important to provided that feedback otherwise you won’t be happy.

Another priority in the meeting was to remind them of the goal. It’s important to us to preserve the history of the house. It’s why we bought a house built in 1910. I made sure we discussed how the plans would celebrate the original built-ins and original windows.

Below are the final plans.

In the above you can see that we were able to achieve our main priorities of having areas to relax and entertain. We created a reading nook and an outdoor porch off the master that is just for us. For our friends and family, we focused on gathering spaces to entertain. The kitchen incorporates open space and is open to the dining and family room. We also have a bar and an area for big couches and our big screen TV in the basement. We are hoping to add an arcade system or ping pong table.

In the end, I think we created a great plan. The plan celebrates the history while giving us usable space.