L.A. Residence6
Los Angeles, California
Second Opinion on Remodel | 2006
Client: Donny Wise
Size: 2020 S.F.
In 2006 a family came to us with drawings for a proposed home remodel from a local Los Angeles architect. Overwhelmed by the $200,000 bid quoted by contractors, they requested our help in rethinking the design and reducing the construction cost.
The original remodel design required removing and replacing exterior walls, rebuilding large portions of the roof, and expanding the concrete slab. By thinking creatively and re-appropriating wasted space in the original home design, we were able to minimize new construction and accommodate the desired additions and improvements to the home without altering the roof or any the exterior walls. Our review/redesign took approximately one week, and helped reduce the construction cost from $200,000 to $52,000. It also shortened construction time as well.
For the sake of our clients’ privacy, drawings and images have been withheld.
"The interior of our home was well suited for the former owners who did not have children. But the home did not suit a family like ours with two small kids. The layout of the home was awkward and if someone were to open up our roof and look down into the house, they would observe that the way we had to walk through the home would resemble mice trying to get through a mini-maze. Several architects provided remodel options that put the price well into the six digit range - with each design requiring that we break down exterior walls.
We presented our dilemma to Lukas and he, with "Rubik's cube solving" ingenuity, redesigned the interior of our home, taking into account existing structures and opening up hallways and space that brought a natural flow to the home - all at a cost we could afford. Although Lukas is internationally known for his ground breaking work, he deals with his clients like family and brings simplicity and a rare touch of humanity to the stressful endeavor of family remodels. I unreservedly recommend Lukas Petrash for your architectural needs." - Donny Wise (donny.wise@gmail.com)