As I have mentioned in previous posts, we are planning on doing a complete renovation on our second story to update it "back to 1929". I have some rough drawings of what I am hoping to have it look like. We will be moving one wall and completely reconfiguring two of the 3 bedrooms and the existing bathroom and even adding second bathroom. We will have some great "built-ins" in all 3 bedrooms as wells as a built-in bookcase at the top of the stairs. All this being said, I do have a consumer architect program that will allow me to lay the entire house out as it needs to be done but obviously I will have to do a lot of research into what current building codes are and if my plan can be done the way we want it or not. My question is has anyone done any major construction such as knocking down or building new walls on their homes and if so did you hire an architect to draw up plans? If you did, how did you go about find "the best person for the job". If you didn't, what did you do so that when the inspectors came you didn't have to tear it all out and start over? <br> <br>Any suggestions would be much appreciated. <br> <br>Thanks!

Probably the first thing to try is to talk to the inspection department and get their ideas. If they are nice, they will point you in the right direction. At the very least, they will tell you where to get a copy of the codes that they use so you can make sure you comply. Remember, most of them don't want to tell you to re-do anything. If you do it right the first time, their job is easier! <br> <br>

There are a couple of things you can do to find a good architect. The first is to check some of there work. After all, that is what you will be paying them for. Any reputable architect will give references and should also have a portfolio of work for you to examine. The next thing is to interview likely candidates. It is important that you find someone that you can establish a good working relationship with. Another thing to do if you know anyone who works in the building trades is to ask their opinion about candidate. The good people will have a good reputation with their peers. We followed these steps when hiring the architect for the house we built and were very happy with the results. Out of all the items involved, are architect's fees were the best value.

The first thing to do is check with your village or city building department or public works and find out what the requirements are for interior remodeling. If the work is not structural some villages will not require a permit. Our neighborhood is a historical district and has an neighborhood planning association. If you have a similar group they are a good resource for refernces, architects, contractors, etc. and getting some direction. I hope this will be of some help.

Greg-
Would you recommend the architect you used in Wisconsin? We are looking to do something similar to our 2nd floor (complete renovation).
Thanks!