All Forum Posts by: Jared W Smith
Jared W Smith has started 27 posts and replied 654 times.
Post: Looking for an architect in NYC : Adding a 3rd bedroom to a 2 bedroom apartment

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
Hello @Vincent Pflieger
I work throughout NYC. I am currently working on an addition and basement reno project in Brooklyn and a feasibility in the Bronx. Though I could most certainly handle a small project like this, however it may not be feasible for you since filing will require many of the same procedures as larger projects. I presume you want this on NYC record so you can gain the value increase of the 3rd bedroom for resale.
Please message me with property address and Jared @ Architectowl.com and we can talk more if you’d like. Thanks
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: Referral for Engineering/architect in NYC

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
Hello @Giovanni Inga
I work throughout NYC. I am currently working on a project in Brooklyn and one in the Bronx. What type of violation? Depending on project type/issue, I may be able to help resolve the matter.
Please message me with property address and violation info Jared @ Architectowl.com
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: Converting a Legal 2-Unit to a 4-Unit Property in Brooklyn, NY

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
NYC has one of the most complex Buildings processes and toughest Zoning and Building Codes. There are soo many things to look into. Get an Architect involved to develop a feasibility report and outline ALL the parameters. Then go from there.
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: Seeking guidance on pricing renovations for a Multi-Family in Brooklyn, NY

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
Quote from @Harris Meyers:
Will be house hacking a two family in Brooklyn and making some renovations before moving in to one of the units. Looking for folks who have done this and any recommendations/guidance.
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: ADU in Brooklyn NY

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
Quote from @Lamacca Holmes:
Hi everyone. Do you know of a compnay that can build an ADU in a backyard in Brooklyn, NY. Has anyone heard of this company.
Looks fishy. They have two websites.
Hello @Lamacca Holmes
In the current NYC zoning ordinance (codes), there's no such thing as an ADU. NYC has a complex building and zoning process. Only possibility is if it's a current non-conforming use property built before code was established/enforced with two habitable buildings on lot. Rare but not impossible.
The website looks fine but they’ve likely just mentioned ADUs and not specified where (what state) they can be built. For example ADUs are legal in CT but not in NY (yet). It could be coming in future.
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: First time multi family rental buyer

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
Welcome @Javier Majano!
I have some projects in Newburgh up that way. All the best on your search and purchase.
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: Finding a Contractor in NYC - Basement Remodeling and Flooding Issues

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
Hello,
Though I don't have any recommendations for this type of scope, I wanted to extend a hello as this property is within my service area. IF you have any architectural, filing or renovation questions for this or any other project, please feel free to reach out. Thanks
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: Design for an unfinished ADU

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
It's funny how @Shannon Jones doesn't mention utilizing an Architect but you've immediately jumped to this conclusion @Henry T.. Past problems?
Evaluating her questions and request, an Architect may suit her needs exactly. As for the scope of work which she has mentioned, it does not seem highly complex and for the average Architect, it wouldn't be a costly endeavor. This scope could quite possibly be undertaken by a highly experienced Interior Designer also. Design Professionals have a keen eye for design and solving problems which may not be apparent to most. Also we think three dimensionally and can envision the space complete before most people can, even in a raw gutted or unbuilt conditions. A drafter may have a very different set of experiences and may not be a designer at all, so they would need to be very skilled.
Best for her to do some research and contact a drafter, Architect and Interior Designer to make the choice which works best for her budget, scope of work and deliverables. (There was no mention of permitting and municipalities requirements.)
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: Snow removal services in Westchester

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
Quote from @Adam Tan:
Hello! I own a 2 family property in Southern westchester, NY. I'm trying to prepare for the upcoming winter season and am hoping to see if there is any recommendations on snow removal services around my area.
Thank you!
Hello Adam,
Westchester County is very large and most snow removal contractors stick to specific areas of their home base town, city or village. Your best bet is to canvas the area surrounding the property for the local landscape companies. Typically in their down season (winter) they will offer snow removal. I know mine does. Get a quote now while they're in fall clean-up. Likely less costly as opposed to right before a big snow storm.
-Jared W. Smith, RA - Principal Architect at Architect Owl PLLC (Licensed in NY & CT)
Post: ZONING ISSUE-- Bought as a Duplex zoned as R3 Residential?

- Architect
- Westchester County, NY
- Posts 666
- Votes 466
Quote from @Megan Roy:
HI all I am hoping you can assist with your experience here.
I have a client who purchased a duplex and rehabbed it. He worked with a licensed HVAC, Electrician and Plumbe.
We are at closing and he's running into an issue with the property being zoned as "R3 Residential" after final compliance checks/quality control stating there is an issue here the zoning. How can I help clear this up? He purchased it as a Duplex, Permits were submitted, Title has this listed as a Duplex as well. However...

LOCATION? City, State?