Forgive my absence, but the architecture business decided to pick up just when my wife had a new baby, so things have been hectic to say the least! So here’s what’s been going on at Design on the Square:
Propel Braddock Hills Charter High School, Pittsburgh, PA:
Rendering of the Commons Area of the new Propel Braddock Hills Charter High School by Lami Grubb
This project is now out to bid and permitting! This 46,000 sf charter school project for 400 students will start construction before the end of the year and be open for students by August 2011. Construction is estimated to be around $2.5 million.
West Hanover Condos, Trenton, NJ:
 Proposed New Condos on West Hanover - Front Elevation |
 Proposed New Condos on West Hanover - Side View |
 Proposed New Condos on West Hanover - Rear View |
A new project that is moving very quickly – this abandoned building will be getting a new facade and a great deal of work inside to build it out as four high-end condos.
The client had a previous architect do some preliminary plans and was unhappy with the results which were mundane and typical apartment style units, excessive hallways that wasted space, uninspired facades, non-code compliant spaces, and, worst of all, bedrooms at ground level adjacent to the sidewalk.
Second Floor Plan
By shifting the stairs away from the outside wall, moving the entry doors, and designing the units for maximum living space, each of the four units were able to grow by about 150 sf, enough to add a half bath to each unit. By creating a light well on the side of the building, we are able to create an enormous wall of windows in each room of the second floor and in all but one bedroom of each of the the first floor units.
The 11′ ceiling, large open living spaces (20′x24′), walls of almost all glass, wood floors and exposed duct work, these condos will definitely achieve the loft style that the client is looking for. Added amenities include a rooftop deck with work out room/party space and a view of the State Capitol! The clients are submitting this project for LEED certification, so use of recycled and recyclable materials, energy efficient equipment and high insulation values will all be included as this moves forward.
The Sterling Building, Trenton, NJ:
Unfortunately, the Sterling Building renovation is now on hold while the developer waits on the economy to catch up with the vision for the project.
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So I’m going to court today to try to collect against a client who hasn’t paid me in six months… I’m trying to walk a fine line between not coming off as an a-hole and being able to make my mortgage payments.