Morris Plains, New Jersey is such a wonderful place to live. Did you know people originally settled in an area called Littleton Village, which is now the location of Stop and Shop? After that folks start living in the area of “five corners” currently the intersection of Speedwell and Hanover. If so you probably realize how rich the history is and what a wonderful and warm community, it has. It may be the key reason you are staying in your current home and unwilling to move despite being cramped and lacking the space you desire. If your home is in dire need of upgrading, then it may be time to call an architect.
Does your upgrading include opening up walls to create a more spacious environment? Or maybe you need additional space for in-laws that will age in your home. You might just be looking for a more spacious master bathroom and looking for a creative way to accomplish this.
Get an Architect Involved:
An architect is your solution to these problems as well as many more. Reconfiguring rooms, altering spaces, coming up with creative solutions to suit your needs is what Aric Gitomer Architect can do to help you and your family. Our motto is “listening to your ideas and making them a reality.”
When designing an addition or renovation in Morris Plains, NJ additional thoughts may include your weariness of looking at the same walls every day, small rooms, dark spaces. Wishing you had more closet space, spacious areas to relax in and socialize. Wish people would come by more to make your home their home? If these concerns have presented themselves to you then it’s time to consider a renovation, alteration or even an addition. Hey what’s the difference between those three choices?
When it comes to these types of projects in Morris Plains, NJ an architect will follow the regulations set forth in the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code: Rehabilitation Code. This code defines the above specified projects above as follows:
Addition:
“Addition” means an increase in the footprint area of a building or an increase in the average height of the highest roof surface or the number of stories of a building. (You would need to check with local zoning ordinances if this is a possibility. Click on the map below and discover all the fabulous requirements of Morris Plains, NJ) – factors to consider: lot size, setbacks, house height, lot coverage). If your project does not conform to the zoning restrictions, you can always seek a variance to attempt and get what you want. In doing so it could add months to your project as well as a denial sending you back to square one of your design. You can read more about zoning on AGA’s website here.
Alteration:
“Alteration” means the rearrangement of any space by the construction of walls or partitions or by a change in ceiling height, the addition or elimination of any door or window, the extension or rearrangement of any system, the installation of any additional equipment or fixtures and any work which reduces the load bearing capacity of or which imposes additional loads on a primary structural component.
Renovation:
“Renovation” means the removal and replacement or covering of existing interior or exterior finish, trim, doors, windows, or other materials with new materials that serve the same purpose and do not change the configuration of space. This project type shall include the replacement of equipment or fixtures. “Repair” means the restoration to a good or sound condition of materials, systems and/or components that are worn, deteriorated or broken using materials or components identical to or closely similar to the existing.
Your Morris Plains, NJ Addition or Renovation Project:
Whatever you choose to do make sure you start making a list of your priorities. For instance what are you most dissatisfied with in your home? Is that kitchen dated and too small and non-functional? Is the kitchen the center of your universe but wish you were part of the Family Room while cooking up a gourmet meal.Or maybe your master bathroom is not big enough for you and your spouse or the master closet is just not allowing you to buy all the clothes you want! Oh how about your basement? Is it an area where you can grow your home (make sure you have headroom!)?
How will this change impact your life? Will you be able to live in your home during the work anticipated by your desires… that would depend on the scope of disruption. Is your roof going to be removed? Will your water be turned off? Are you going to be without heat? Some of these modifications will force you out of your home during a period of time. Make sure you have an alternate place of where to stay. If you are just opening up some walls or creating an addition that does not impact the rest of your home, you probably can stay put! This would require critical planning with your general contractor.
Morris Plains, NJ Architect Selection:
It is critical to have an Architect involved that will listen to your concerns. An architect will come up with solutions to fit your needs. Once you start, interview several architects! Explore what services they will provide and how they will fit into your budget. Some architects may have grand visions for your home and do not even listen to your actual concerns. While others will want to provide services well beyond your means. Give your neighbor, Aric Gitomer Architect, a call and see how we can assist you in making your dreams a reality.