Answers

Congrats on the new home! I think you have started off on a really good foundation with open dialog with your new neighbors. A few suggestions. 

Make sure you communicate with your neighbors about you project and how long it will last. Let them know that if there is any concern that they can talk to you about it. Give them an easy way to contact you. 

Have your contractors be respectful. There will obviously be early mornings or late nights for work to be done, but be respectful of your neighbors. Maybe offer some earplugs for them to block out the unwanted noises or ask the guys to start later on a Saturday or Sunday so your neighbors can sleep in. 

Clean up.... Make sure that anyone who is building and installing cleans up after themselves. Cigarette butts, trash, cursing, loud music and loose nails are only some of the concerns of an active work sight. And those concerns grow for neighbors with children.

My biggest suggestion, at the completion of the job have an open house. Invite your neighbors to come see your new house and the project that was goign on next door. It will offer you a time to get to know one another better. Use it as a way to say thanks for dealing with the last few months.Good luck!! 

There is mudh information about how to find an architect/designer for new home construction or remodeling additions. Unfortunately, many decisions end up being based on numbers, specifically the cost estimate to prepare the design and specifications. Basing such an important decision and arguably one of the largest investments of your life on mere numbers is at least incomplete and at worst, a potential nightmare scenario.

 It is recommended that  a comprehensive approach be undertaken  that admittedly takes a little more time than just providing an initial cost estimate but one that can result in truly finding the firm for your unique situation and budget.

It starts with identifying what's "right" for you, a unique definition that requires a solid vision for your project and some personal introspection. For instance, if you are planning on undertaking a large whole house remodel or a contemporary/modern design style, you should look at architects and/or design/build firms in your area that specialize in and have a track record of building those types of projects.

Narrow that list by investigating each company's websites, calling their references if available, the Better Business Bureau, and your local building association chapter.

You should consider the types of personalities you like and respond to best.  You won't know if you're 'compatible' until you meet face-to-face. If you're confident in one firm either from your research or a strong referral, you may not feel the need to meet with any other candidates. But if you are truly starting your search from scratch, without a referral from a trusted source, it is suggested that  you develop a short list of 3-4 firms and invite them to make a presentation in your home -- as much to glean their methods as to gauge compatibility and their interest in your project.

At those meetings, be open and honest about your project. If you have a draft fllor plan or inspiration photos, show them. Request that each candidate bring photos of projects that are similar to yours in style and size. Inquire about how they differentiate themselves from their peers.

Finally, ask each candidate on how they price their services and, in turn, share your project budget, There's no sense in trying to forge a good working relationship if you are not forthcoming about what you can afford..

Once you find an architect or design/build firm that's earned your confidence in their skills, understanding of your project, and (most important) their ability to communicate with you, it's time to refine and sign a contract and get them involved in the project as soon as possible. 

1.  Add insulation in walls and roof.  2.  Air seal your home. 3.  Install Low E or better dual pane doors and windows.

Ask for references and speak to past clients to find out if the architect can design within budget.  Find out if the architect has experience doing residential remodeling.  Get a complete price for the entire design development and construction document package including consultants i.e. engineering, permit processing etc.  Don't pay a retainer until you check hiring an archictect against a design - build firm who will handle the entire process for one fee.

I aggree with everyone above.  In our experience the most common thing that tends to happen in the design process is that the design tends to overrun the budget and often there can be delays and added expense as a result.

How will they integrate design, selections, and construction?

What is their track record for being able to design a project that meets a target construction budget, and actually complete the construction project?

How do they help to ensure that the project ends up on time, on budget, and as beautiful as imagined?

* Is he Licensed with the county you planing to build the addition ?

* How long he was in business ?

* What type of projects he has done in the past ?

Sincerely 

Nicolas 

Ask for references of their Clients who worked with the architect in the past year on a project similar to what you're planning.

Ask for a copy of their contract

Who owns the plans and specifications?

Ask to visit a project that is in process

How long have they  been in business?

Who will be our main point of contact? and then ask to meet the individual

Dennis D. Gehman, Master Certifed Remodeler (MCR)

President

Gehman Design Remodeling

PA297

RetroFoam

PA120258

Office 215-513-0300

dennis@gehmanremodeling.com

www.gehmanremodeling.com

For both an existing and new construction home, the top three items that provide the greatest value and return on investment are as follows:

1. Installation of LED light bulbs and fixtures in replacment of incadenscent or compact flourescent bulbs/fixtures.
2. Sealing of exterior shell of house and all top plate penetrations in conjunction with blower door test.
3. Properly installed insulation in walls and ceilings and upgrading R-Value above code requirements.

Additional items to consider include:

1. Testing and sealing of hvac system duct work
2. Upgrade hvac system condenser SEER and furnace efficiency
3. Tankless water heater
4. Solor photovoltaic system

Step one, if you have siding use a insulated vinyl siding with silica gel. Replace your windows with a double or triple insulated window system. And third your doors are very important. When you do replacement anything you want the doors and windows to fit the space perfectly. We can do these things and more at Jarrett Industries.

I have constructed wine cellars and installed basements under existing houses. I can tell you right up front it won't be cheap. And it is not easy.

Have you considered building an above ground wine cellar, or building one underground but not under the house?

You will need to contact the DC Zoning Department to get information regarding your property setbacks. Once you get the information on restrictions or limitations in your area there can be a few ideas such as a closed in porch or even sunroom. I have a relative who lives on S Street and he built a two level deck on his townhouse. The areas, if similar to his, are somewhat small and narrow but can be manageable for new construction. Good luck on your project!

If you have standup space below grade near the kitchen and a dry foot print beneath your home you may want to consider consulting with a designer or builder to explore the possabilities. Often  it is necessary to dig out and incorporate masonry and / or stone work into the restraining walls and floor. The objective of the cellar is to create an environment maintain a constant temperature and humidity.

Needless to say, depending on size a cellar will allow you to stock pile volume and will give you an opportunity to age choice ventages yourself. Good luck!

I would presume that there are restrictions in Washington which require the approval of an Urban Design Commission for any archietectural modification to an older structure. Such organizations operate with guidelines that are unique to your area.

I would suggest that you contact your local Building Department. Provide them with the name of your neighborhood and inquire of them  "what if any restrictions limit your options".