Newton, MA 3rd Floor Renovation for Master Bed & Bath

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

We have been working with a client in Newton, MA on developing a plan to renovate their existing 3rd floor into a new master bedroom and bathroom. The challenge is that the old space upstairs is really an odd combination of low roof slopes, stairway and wall placements.

​To top it off the zoning regulations will be critical in reviewing to maximize the potential square footage they are allowed based upon Floor Area Ratio. Additionally, these regulations create limitations set on a single family residence zoned not to exceed 2.5 stories.

Part of our regular Services as a licensed architect in the state of Massachusetts is to review and plan accordingly with local building departments. This ensures an optimized and well thought out design for any renovation, new construction or addition.

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Existing Conditions Documentation

The fun always begins with providing a free consultation to the client to hear about the intended design requirements. At this time we also discover what potential problems exist at the home.

The basic conceptual layout will take shape against information acquired from building code and local zoning research. This is of course after about an hour or two of on-site measurement and photography. The duration depends on the scope of work. 

Once the current home is modeled we can compare very quickly multiple design options from a visual perspective. We also look at the cost standpoint and even building performance.

One benefit is to keep in mind the overall budget for the project to adjust proportionally in scale. This way, when estimates and bids come in from contractors, a reasonable expectation is already set for if the project can be financed.

In our project here in Newton, the first pass at a design option and layout, you can easily see the existing home with proposed new construction elements.

The utilization of dormers help provide additional headroom at key areas without having a major and costly alteration to the roof ridge on our client’s hands.

Schematic Design for Custom Home Plans

Moving forward into the identification and development of the design, we work closely with our clients to meet their pace. In addition, we aim to exceed expectations.

We will continue to assist and advise our clients such as the ones in Newton, MA on how they can best approach the construction planning and process.

Even to the extent of being a phone call or email away during construction to address any unforeseen issues that might arise.

Look for  updates on this project as we progress into construction documents and submit for building permitting this year. The client is just as excited as we are to help bring new life into their existing home and give them a well designed space!

Updated (05/20/16)

After several rounds of exploring possible options for the layout of the half story addition and renovation, we were able to identify a fantastic plan that works the best for our client.

Thrilled with the new opportunity to enhance their existing living space, the homeowners are seeking out qualified contractors in there area to undertake the job.

As part of our services, we provide 3D perspectives and quick spatial views to help visualize rooms.

We put together for the client as well as an added level of detail for the contractors to understand the intent of the interior elevations.

It was a fun project to collaborate with the homeowners on and glad we could help them realize some potential in an awkward half story space.