Design Confidently, Live Comfortably
  The Ryan kitchen renovation came together seamlessly, despite the fact that architect Andre Rothblatt and contractor Peter Friel have different styles. Along with homeowner Claudine Ryan, Andre and Peter each brought specialized talents to the table and shared ideas from start to finish. Here's what they say about the collaboration:
When we first met Peter, he spoke of matters near and dear to our hearts such as "return on investment" and "sticking to a budget." And he balanced practical matters, like resale and maintenance, with the importance of the "enjoyability" of our new home. After meeting Andre, reviewing his portfolio, and giving him a tour of the house, we felt he would complement Peter and complete our team. Though some of Andre's design ideas were too contemporary for us, his sense of layout and flow appealed to us. To be honest, we didn't expect the level of design expertise we were able to tap, not only from Andre but also from Peter. I asked for his input on everything from paint colors to furniture styles, and I learned that even if I couldn't envision something he suggested, it would look great in the end. Peter Friel, contractor: I'm kind of picky -- I don't take just any job. I have to feel good about the client and the project. In this case, Andre is into contemporary design, so he's got the new, and I've got the old -- it's a good combination. And we understood the client's vision. In the beginning of a renovation, homeowners are gung-ho, but they don't realize how much work there is to do. The process can wear them down, so it helps when they can trust you enough to make some of the decisions. This happened with Claudine. After a while, she trusted me to decide things that would work. It sped up the process, and I really like being able to work that way. Andre Rothblatt, architect: Collaboration is all about chemistry. You have a homeowner, an architect, and a contractor -- each with his or her own ego. There can be a power struggle, but in this case there wasn't. We relied on and respected each other's opinions. It's important to have well-defined roles. I was responsible for the broader issues such as the floor plan and layout. Peter is great at details and color. Claudine made all of our ideas into a cohesive whole. A common fear is that an architect will come in and always impose his ideas. I don't always agree with my clients, but I have learned to listen and then respond, articulating my views in a rational way. NEXT: Removing Walls Safely BACK: Kitchen Collaboration |
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PHOTO: KAREN TANAKA |
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