Architects Redux

Last night, we had the final visit from the list  of potential architects and interior designers.  Two people from LD stopped by last night for a quick tour and visit.  A couple of things we like about LD:  it didn't even occur to them that the garage would cost $45000 to change into a studio.  They also suggested we add on to the side of the house and not up--cheaper and less invasive.  (The other architect said this, too.  It's a good idea b/c we have a bit of a side yard)

They also had an excellent idea about phase 1 and phase 2.  Phase 1 is finishing the back of the garage to an office/studio.  Phase 2 is adding on a bedroom, and fixing some of problems of the BUB, the laundry "closet", and a "master" bedroom located off the kitchen in which two people cannot walk in at the same time (nevermind, two people and a large collie).  Phase 1 now.  Phase 2 in 2 years. They suggested that we go ahead and draw the plans for Phase 1 and 2 and the same time (save all the detailed construction info for later), but that way we would have a Master Plan so that the studio would match the house after it was remodeled.  The windows would be the right size and style and in the right place, etc.

It's clear when you're standing at the back of the lot that the window style and placement of the garage/studio should echo whatever is going on in the house.  However, we really shouldn't have it echo what it currently is.  It should echo what it will be.  (Like a pre-echo.  A precho).

So cool!  I think we'll go with them.  We like their style and they are doing tons of work in the "inner" streets of Plaza-Midwood. (We're on one of the up and coming outer streets of Plaza-Midwood.)  And Dave and I did a quick estimate of the cost of what we'd like to add on to and remodel and the estimate is much closer to our range than before. 

Now, I need to call H, the interior designer we think we'll go with, and let her know what we're thinking.  Managing the "team" of people working with us on this remodel is difficult!  So far, we have a landscape architect, we are looking for a landscape contractor, hiring an interior designer and an archictect.  We've already paid out a bit o' money and basically, there's not even one plant in the yard that's different!  I feel like I'm entering a world of professional advisement that eventually will keep us from making costly mistakes, but right now feels like a total money suck!  Recall past statements of cheap ass self.  This is not my world.  (World Market is my world!)  10 years of subscriptions to Met Home do something to ya, and it's not necessarily good.

Quick other news:  I'm a bit depressed about recent comments from others with Jetta problems.  We are really planning on the Jetta being the kids' car in high school and college.  I guess it just won't have a bumper.  Better news, I was notified yesterday that my manuscript to the Journal of Computer-Mediate Communication was accepted!  Woohoo!  That provides no money, but does help me in my efforts to get tenure. 

8:21:52 AM