Studio China Architecture + Design

Welcome to Free Insights, a series of original writings created to stimulate your curiosity while answering questions regarding architecture and design. These articles and interviews will inspire design ideas, inform, and further your understanding of this creative discipline called architecture.

The Role of an Architect
By Darren China, R.A.
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Many see an architect as someone who “draws plans” or makes “blue prints”. For me this misconception conjures up memories of interning during architecture school long before I was actually an architect. There I was relegated to the print room in the back of the office where I was overwhelmed by the toxic fumes of the ammonia needed to generate blue prints. These blue prints where being made so as to create multiple copies of the drawn plans which were originally placed on mylar sheets…in pencil. Luckily the blue print machine has now gone away with the ditto machine.

I find that generally this notion is brought about by that rolled up set of drawings architects can be found carrying around. Often this is because the plans for a project are the tangible item seen by those who have never utilized the expertise and services of an architect. In reality an architect is someone who is a creative problem solver who using his or her design expertise can arrive at a successful solution. An architect works closely with their client to help them in visualizing their completed home, building, office, apartment, etc. He/she will act as an advisor and resource in making decisions with regard to flow, continuity, materials, scale, constructability, etc. of the space. The architects’ role is to understand his/her clients’ needs, interests, building site, budget, and lifestyle and then having gathered this information create an overall design concept that will be aesthetically pleasing as well as functional and code compliant.

So when do the drawings start? In actuality they are occurring simultaneously to all of the information gathering and research necessary to bring about a successful project. The architect will generate drawings of varying levels of detail so as to help the client understand what the end results' look and feel will be like. From these drawings and discussions ideas can be explored and decisions made. Often an architect will coordinate various other consultants such as engineers and vendors while researching various materials and construction methods. Once all this drawing, coordinating and researching is done a highly detailed set of drawings and written specifications will be created. These will be shared with a number of contractors so that they may accurately price the project and then eventually build it.

Though the architect has handed over his roll of drawings, his role in getting the project actually built is not done. The architect now assists the client in selecting the correct contractor to execute that which has been discussed, decided upon and drawn. And once the builder is selected the architect will act as the liaison between the contractor and client. He/she will speak the language of construction with the contractor and help to guide their client through the process of taking the plans to built reality.

Though an architect can be found generating plans this is only one part of his/her responsibilities. It is only one piece of the puzzle. And thanks to computers and large format copiers no body has to breathe ammonia fumes any longer.

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Break On Through: An Interview with Dan Strum
This interview originally appeared in the June 2009 edition of The Seward Park Buzz (www.spbuzz.org)
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Many neighbors of our neighbors have renovated their apartments or have plans to do so. Some are interested in straight-forward bathroom renovations; others wish to demolish walls or created break-through apartments. SPBuzz Editor Dan Strum interviewed Darren China, a long-time associate of his and founder of Studio China Architecture + Design to get some thoughts and ideas on renovation.

SPB: Many of my neighbors have performed renovations in their apartments. Some have hired architects, others have hired contractors. What's the difference?

DC: An architect and a contractor have two different roles in the construction process. Sometimes, especially for small projects, these roles can be carried out by the same person. In any case, in order to achieve a high quality finished space, it is essential to fulfill both roles.

An architect works closely with the client to understand the ways in which the space will be used. How does one live in the space? How will one occupy the space? Upon gathering this information the architect, using his/her educational background and experience in design, will work with the client to design and visualize the completed apartment. He/she will act as an advisor and resource in making decisions with regard to flow, continuity, materials, scale, constructability, etc. of the space. The architect will generate drawings of varying levels of detail so as to help the client understand what the end results' look and feel will be like. Working through the design challenges on paper — before material is ordered or labor arrives on site — enhances creativity, saves time, and saves money. In the end the architect will provide a highly detailed set of drawings to the contractor which will allow him to accurately price the project.

The contractors’ role is that of builder. He brings with him vast knowledge of how to make raw materials become a tangible space. He will enlist a number of sub contractors to handle the various trades required in the project. These might include electrician, plumber, painter, carpenter, cabinet maker, etc. in order to carry out the design put forth by the client and architect. The passion and talents of the contractor lie in carrying out the design as put forth and creating a beautiful built space.

SPB: Is there a difference, in terms of price and timing between hiring an architect who will, in turn, hire a contractor, or hiring a contractor who can fulfill the role of architect?

DC: I don’t believe it is an either/or scenario. Obviously we are not talking about simple aesthetic projects like hiring a painter to repaint your kitchen or a plumber to replace a toilet. For these, by all means, just call a painter or a plumber! But when you begin to consider an apartment renovation where you are really interested in increasing your comfort of living both parties should be engaged.

New York has some of the most gifted contractors one can find. Their participation greatly enhances the projects they work on. But keep in mind, a contractors responsibilities really lie in constructing the project, and they therefore tend to be more focused on building a project than the time in dealing with the intricacies of client tastes and creative solutions. Having said that, a contractor’s creative proposal may be based only on his past experience or that which is easily constructed. This goes back to what I see as a primary role of the architect – to consult with the client and work with them to develop a unique vision of the space, informed by trends and best-practices, but free from any fixed notions of how things must be done.

SPB: Have you done much work in NYC apartments? What are the most common renovations?

DC: Yes I have done quite a bit of work in NYC apartments. The types of renovation work really are quite broad. Everything from combining one apartment with the one next door and complete apartment gut renovations to kitchen renovations to room divisions. Probably the two most common renovations are those in which people are trying to create an additional bedroom in their home. Often children have grown to a point where keeping two kids in one room is no longer feasible. The other most common is probably the bathroom renovation. Many co-op bathrooms haven’t been updated since the 1950’s and 1960’s. They have the pink or green 4 inch by 4 inch tiles in them, the floors are worn and have become in need of new life. Bathrooms are very personal spaces and owners often like to make them feel comfortable. Kitchens are also often looked to for renovation as this is the most used space in the home. Many owners want to create a more open plan so as to integrate the kitchen with the rest of the apartment. Coupled with this we often design for new lighting to better light the cooking space and/or take advantage of natural light from windows while providing for new appliances, stone counters and new flooring. Often a large part of the goal is to create a great gathering space for the family. Kitchens are usually that space whether it is over breakfast or while cooking dinner.

SPB: Yes, I have had some neighbors who have done extensive kitchen renovations. How do you approach kitchen renovations? What are the biggest challenges they pose?

DC: As with any project we approach kitchens by asking questions. How do you currently use your kitchen? How do you wish you could be using your kitchen? What is currently working? What is not working? Etc. Armed with an understanding of how the owner and their family use the space or how they want to use the space we develop a number of planning options. We call these schematic designs. We then discuss these options with the owner. Often times we hybrid options together with the owner so as to find the most appealing and advantageous plan. We then begin to develop the details. This would include how the cabinets might be made based on owner needs. This also includes selecting and presenting a number of options to the owner as to what sink is to be used, what faucets, microwave, oven, refrigerator, light fixtures, tiling, counter top surface, etc.

Once fixtures, appliances, finishes, and planning are all decided upon we generate drawings for the building to review and for contractors to use in providing pricing. We assist the owner in the review process, help them select a contractor and then oversee construction to be sure the ideas we have been discussing are carried out correctly.

The biggest challenge is often space. New York apartments regardless of how big they are, are always just a little too small it seems. The challenge is to make the space function and be beautiful with the allotted area. But there is always a solution. It’s just a matter of finding it.

SPB: It sounds like you're leaving something out -- where do the bureaucracies of building codes, permits and co-op approval factor in?

DC: You’re correct, there is the bureaucratic side to getting almost any project completed. As I had mentioned, once all the planning and details are decided upon we generate drawings for the building to review. The co-op board will have a management company who handles various aspects of your building including renovations within the complex. The co-op board and management will have created an alteration agreement which they will provide to the owner. This often outlines the required insurances needed from the contractor, what is or is not allowed to be done to the building as well as guidelines to protect the building and the other owners in general while you are performing your alterations. The building will require that their architect or engineer review our plans to be sure we are abiding by the requirements set forth in the alteration agreement and most often request that we file the project with the New York City Department of Buildings to ensure we meet code and acquire the correct permits. At this point I will help my client to hire an expediting consultant to take the drawings through the Department of Buildings and gain approval. I will coordinate with the consultant and adjust the drawings if needed to facilitate their approval. Once the project has been approved by the building department the contractor will be able to acquire the permits to begin construction. Also once the Department of Buildings has approved our project I will be able to provide the co-op Management company with any remaining items they may require, and ask the contractor that he provide proof of insurance as required by the co-op board.

Though this process may seem long and drawn out it typically flows pretty smoothly. My office takes care of virtually all aspects of the process and communicates with the buildings management company, building architect or engineer as well as the expediting consultant. And while we are waiting for the different parties involved to review and comment on the project we are continuing to develop the details and/ or interviewing contractors with the owner.

SPB: Do you have a favorite sort of renovation or style?

DC: I tend to lean more toward the contemporary or transitional styling. A transitional style is a “cleaned up” version of traditional architecture. It’s a more clean lined approach to the ornate aspects you find in traditional work.

Often people think of contemporary or modern as a super clean, pristine, often white space. Almost cold. I don’t agree. You can have a contemporary space while simultaneously having a warm, intimate space bathed in natural light. You can still use natural woods and complimentary tiles, glass, etc.

Regardless though, my favorite sort of renovation is the one in which the client isn’t afraid to come to the table with ideas. One in which they engage and really collaborate on the process. It makes it fun and it makes for a better project in the end.

SPB: Between concept development, design, filing and actual construction, how long do projects take?

DC: Time is a tough question. Like cost there are so many variables involved that it is almost impossible to answer. But in reality I find it often gets dictated by the client and how quickly they can make decisions. Other variables include size of project, speed at which the building reviews the drawings, the chosen contractor and their schedule, etc. In general though when designing and building a full apartment renovation I find myself working with the client for roughly 10 months from start to finish.

SPB: I know that large-scale renovation can be very expensive. How do you approach the pricing of your projects?

DC: The cost of a project has many variables not the least of which is, how extensive is the project? But the real question behind costs is, what are the clients objectives for the space? What caliber of materials, finishes and even contractor are you interested in? I often feel that an owner should consider what kind of investment they are willing to make in creating a home with the qualities they desire. Then we can design toward that level of investment. The first step of course is to have a discussion so we may explore some of the goals and develop a framework for pursuing the project.

SPB: Thank you for your time!

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I Need An Architect, But Who?
By Darren China, R.A.
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You have decided the time is right to tackle that construction project and realized you would benefit greatly with the right architect in your corner. But who? How do you find the correct person to help you create that project you’ve been envisioning? Here are five factors to consider when selecting a design professional for the job.

1) Design Aesthetic: What is the architect’s style? What do his previous projects look like and do they match your own aesthetic interests? Do your due diligence by visiting his/her website to gain a better understanding of their design approach or ask to see their portfolio upon meeting with them to discuss your current design challenges.

2) Personality: You will be working together as partners in designing your project for a sustained period of time. Therefore you need to select an architect who shares your sensibilities, values, sense of humor, etc. You and your architect must feel comfortable discussing design alternatives. He/She should also possess the expertise and confidence to engage the contractor during the construction phase of the project

3) Collaborative: In any design and construction project there are a number of players involved, ie. contractors, code officials, vendors, engineers and consultants. An architect that can collaborate and coordinate all of these individuals effectively with the overall objective of the project in mind is of extreme importance. Obviously he/she needs to be collaborative with you. Stories of Frank Lloyd Wright dictating where every vase was to be placed may not depict the correct relationship for you.

4) Resourceful: Let’s face it you are interested in finding an architect to help you solve a complex design problem. You need someone to provide solutions you may not have been aware were possible. A beautiful finished project comes from research of materials, codes, construction methods and dialog with manufacturers. Does the architect have the resourcefulness to find alternative solutions?

5) Willingness to Absorb Your Problem: Construction is never a lineal path. It tends to be a stutter step; two steps forward, one step to the side, one step back, three steps forward. Unforeseen conditions arise while designing as well as during the construction process. Part of your architect’s job is to absorb and solve these problems on your behalf. You have career and day to day responsibilities therefore you need an architect that can lead the project and solve issues as they arise using his/her expertise.

The desired end result of every design endeavor is to produce a functional yet beautifully designed and built environment. Through a collaborative partnership with an architect who matches your interests and possesses the expertise necessary, the desired outcome is sure to be a reality.

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The Process of Architecture: NYC Alterations
By Darren China, R.A.
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The following is a sequence of steps most often taken in order to successfully develop an architectural project and create a high quality environment to live or work in. As every design project has unique requirements, often there will be deviation from this process. However this outline will help to provide you with insight to the design and construction process and give you a greater understanding of the steps you will be taking.

The first step in the process is the Programming and Documentation phase. The purpose of this phase is to acquire the necessary information to design and construct your project. The programming aspect entails discussion between you and your architect as to the objectives for the project. This would include discussion of how you envision using your new spaces. From these conversations you and your architect will be able to develop a program for the project outlining all requirements. The documentation aspect entails identifying any existing conditions which may affect design and construction. Your architect will visit the site and conduct a survey. This survey will be used to create a drawing in Auto Cad of your existing space and its current configuration. Using this drawing, schematic designs can be created.

The second step is the Schematic Design phase consisting of basic planning in which a series of design concepts are produced to illustrate alternatives available to you given the existing conditions and your programmatic requirements. These schematic designs will show the arrangement of spaces with relation to each other in plan. Depending on the program of your project they may include partitions, doors, windows, stairs, millwork, plumbing fixtures and proposed furniture layouts. A number of schematic ideas will be generated which are then discussed with you and refined until an agreeable plan is found. Often elements from various schematic ideas are hybrid together to find the correct solution.

The Design Development phase is the third step which begins after the Schematic Design has been approved. This step further develops the design, including special features and details of the visual concept and any elements that may differ from the original design criteria. This development will be presented and discussed with you.

At about this point in the process your architect will assist you in submitting drawings to the co-op or condo board for a residential project or landlord for a commercial project. Your board or landlord will review the submitted drawings for compliance with the rules of the building as they pertain to construction. Also your architect will assist you in retaining an expediting consultant in order to file with the New York City Building Department for construction and demolition permits.

The fourth step in the process is the Construction Documents phase. This consists of drawings and specifications for the purpose of assisting you in obtaining bids and construction permits as well as constructing the project. This is often what people call the “blue prints”. Construction Documents will often include the following:

Demolition Plan, indicating all elements of the existing space to be removed
Dimensioned Floor Plans, indicating the location and types of partitions, windows, doors, and millwork
Ceiling plans, showing height, material and lighting layout
Electrical and data plan showing locations of receptacles
Finish plans and schedules, showing the location and type of paint, wall coverings, wood finishes, carpeting, floor coverings, fabrics and other special finishes
Elevations as required to show the walls of the spaces as if looked at straight on – this helps the contractor to place elements vertically, ie. the location of a wall sconce on the wall, etc.
Details, as required to convey the design intent of the project – this includes how particular pieces come together and connect or how a fabricator will be required to construct components of the project.
Specifications, door and hardware schedule, lighting schedule, plumbing schedule, and finish schedule.

The fifth step is the Bidding and Negotiation phase in which your architect will assist you in obtaining bids and help you in evaluating and selecting a general contractor.

Step six is the Construction Observation phase of the project. Through out the construction of your project your architect will act as your representative to the contractor. This will likely include attending weekly site meetings during construction to ensure the project is being built per the decisions that have been made though out the design process. Your architect will keep you informed of the general progress and quality of the work being performed, review and approve submittals made by the contractor, review the contractors requests for payment, answer questions from the contractor regarding issues arising due to site conditions and prepare and issue punch lists. Through out the construction phase of the project your architect will help you in making decisions brought about by unforeseen conditions arising during construction.

As you continue to consider undertaking the process of creating your ideal environment you might consider taking the initial step of contacting your landlord or building management company. Introduce yourself to the person on the management’s staff who works with your building regarding construction projects. Explain a bit about what you are interested in doing and request to have the buildings alteration agreement e-mailed or faxed to you. This document will outline the rules for altering the space within your building as well as deposits required to begin construction. Once you retain the services of an architect he/she will be able to help you navigate the requirements outlined in the alteration agreement.

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Work Place Design: For Better Team Interaction, Camaraderie, and Collaboration
By Darren China, R.A.
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Many of today’s forward thinking innovative companies are realizing the need for space within their offices to allow for casual interaction among colleagues. By designing space for social interaction; collaboration and camaraderie is being instilled into the office culture. This allows for the exchange of new ideas, further trust between staff members and happier more engaged employees. The following are three design strategies that can help foster such an environment:

1) Breakout Spaces: These are areas made up of a small table and 3-4 chairs in which teams can quickly gather to discuss a project. These are located within short vicinity of the work desk or cubes typically inhabited by team members. The breakout space allows for better communication and impromptu meetings to discuss ideas or issues at hand. These spaces can also be used for mentoring and learning between more senior and junior staff.

2) Café Space: This is not meant to be a “lunch room” but rather an open space in which the staff does not only eat lunch but also convenes. A flat screen TV can be incorporated along with multiple round tables and even a tall counter with bar stools. Such a space creates a café feeling which allows employees to socialize in a relaxed environment. This space will therefore allow colleagues to become better acquainted on a personal level hence building relationships. The café space also allows for individuals at different levels within a company who tend not to have the opportunity to interact with each other to come together.

3) Flex Spaces: These group work spaces can be used a multitude of ways. Depending upon task and group size, the space can be divided and then further subdivided using mesh curtains or sliding partitions. This allows for spaces that can be made quite private when necessary or open hence inviting outside collaboration.

By implementing design solutions that foster better interaction and collaboration between colleagues, the work place can become not only a more profitable environment but also an office with a more engaged staff which can equate to soaring performance.

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Manhattan Townhouse Renovations: Classic Architecture, Contemporary Design
By Darren China, R.A.
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Manhattan townhouses exude a charm that other dwellings just cannot compare with. These four to six story structures built in the late 19th and early 20th century afford privacy hard to come by in New York City. They typically include an eat-in kitchen, private back yard often with a garden, large living spaces and a classic décor inclusive of a beautiful stairway, inlaid wood floors, crown moldings and multiple marble mantled fire places. Unfortunately time has often taken its toll on these beautiful buildings. Given the time period in which they were built, amenities lack with respect to the life style of its modern day owners. The following are four design strategies that can help rejuvenate these classic buildings while implementing contemporary design aesthetic and functionality:

1) Restore main stair and add an elevator: The main stairway of the townhouse is often an eloquent focal point of the building's interior. By restoring the stair with ornate iron hand rails and perhaps inlaid marble stair treads new life can be given to the spine of the building. Also in an effort to improve the vertical circulation of the house, the removal of the dumb waiter which is generally not used by the modern day family can be explored thereby potentially making room for an elevator. The new elevator can eliminate having to navigate the multistory home by foot.

2) Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning: By replacing the existing outdated boiler typically still found in the Manhattan townhouse with a new higher efficiency unit, the building can be made far more environmentally friendly while producing cost savings over the lifetime of its use. Also with the newer system space savings can be realized through the installation of less bulky radiators than those affiliated with the older boiler. For the summer months a zoned central air conditioning system can potentially be implemented bringing the building into the new millennium.

3) Day Lighting: Bringing natural daylight into the townhouse not only assists in saving on electric bills since lights do not need to be used as often, but it also lends to the quality of life for the building's inhabitants. By creating or restoring an existing skylight above the main stair, daylight can filter through the entire vertical length of the building and any space adjacent to the stairway. At the garden level the rear of the house could be opened up to the backyard by installing French doors and additional windows. This alteration would provide a greater connection between the interior and outdoor space while allowing daylight to flood this area of the house.

4) Modern Kitchen: The kitchen is the most used space of any home, whether by the family or staff, so modernizing it to fit the needs of the modern family only makes sense. First step would be to rethink how to better utilize the space from the stand points of workflow, storage and even as a gathering space for meals. New high end appliances, finishes and cabinetry can be designed to fit the needs of family and/or staff.

The creation of a modern living space while maintaining the classic appearance of these historic buildings allows for an improved quality of life for its inhabitants while leaving in tact the fabric of the city and its neighborhoods. Such alterations and rejuvenation will also bring a high level of living experience, which leads to a better investment whether one plans to live in the new space or sell to a buyer who dreams of living in a modern classic.

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Creating Open Vibrant Space in Your Home
By Darren China, R.A.
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Many of my residential clients have indicated that one of the main objectives for our work together is to open up their living environment so as to create a more loft like and voluminous space. This is particularly true of clients I have in New York City where apartments tend to possess layouts that are very compartmentalized and claustrophobic. Clients wishing to build newly constructed homes state this objective with the intent to create a more spacious home while establishing visual and physical connections between rooms.

What are some ideas to create a more vibrant and spacious living environment?

1) Combine rooms to create a more open floor plan. This will likely require the removal of a wall to create one space from two or three adjoining rooms. Flooring materials, the ceiling plane, lighting layout and even paint colors can then be designed to flow through the newly created space and create a cohesive environment. This design approach will immediately create a more open living area.

2) Maximize natural sun light from windows. Try to expose windows to the living space as much as possible by using window treatments that either roll up or can be pulled back during the day or treatments that are not heavy or bulky. Use sheers or solar shades that when drawn will allow light to filter through. Again, if walls or parts of walls can be eliminated or openings created this will allow available light to further penetrate into rooms.

3) Use of translucent or reflective materials will allow natural or artificial lighting to filter from space to space and create connectivity between these areas. I often try to introduce translucent panels into my work to provide privacy between rooms. While providing privacy the panels simultaneously allow light to pass through which creates an attractive luminescent glow.

4) Pay close attention to the paint colors you choose for your home. Use a vibrant light toned paint scheme. I often find that clients have used darker colors in rooms with little natural light or rooms that are small. By using lighter tones you allow the light to bounce around the room rather than be absorbed by the dark colors. Use of white on the ceiling is highly beneficial when the room is mostly lit by artificial light because this will allow the light from the fixture to bounce off the ceiling and reach the floor or table surface more effectively.

These are four design strategies that can create the feeling of an open vibrant living space. Each approach utilizes the same square feet of space one currently possesses while increasing the quality of light and life in the home.