Residential Projects
BAWI works with homeowners on additions, renovations, new homes and legalization projects across Long Island and New York City. We focus on clear drawings, realistic planning and the permit issues that often shape residential work.
Residential Additions, Renovations & New Homes
A successful residential project starts with the house, the property and the local approval process. BAWI helps homeowners understand what may be possible, develop a practical design and prepare the architectural documents needed for permits and construction.
What We Help With
- Home additions and extensions
- Second-floor additions and dormers
- Interior alterations and open floor plans
- Kitchen and bathroom renovations
- New custom homes
- Zoning and feasibility review
- Legalization of existing residential work
- Permit drawings and Building Department coordination
How the Process Works
- Understand the project. We discuss your goals, budget considerations, property address and the space you need.
- Review the property. We review available surveys, records, zoning requirements and existing conditions that may affect the design.
- Develop the design. We prepare a clear plan that responds to the house, the site and the way you want to live.
- Prepare drawings and approvals. We develop the architectural documents and coordinate responses to municipal review comments.
When to Contact BAWI
- Before buying a house that you plan to expand or renovate
- Before asking contractors to price a major addition or alteration
- When your property records do not match the existing house
- When a municipality requests architectural plans
- When deciding whether to add a dormer, build an addition or reconfigure the interior
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an architect for my residential project?
Requirements depend on the scope of work and the municipality. Structural changes, additions, new homes and many permit applications require professionally prepared drawings. We can review the proposed work and explain the likely path.
How do I know what size addition is allowed?
We review the survey, zoning district, setbacks, lot coverage, floor-area limits and available property records. The municipality makes the final determination, but early review helps identify likely constraints before design work advances.
How long does the process take?
Design and approval timing varies with the project scope, property records, municipality, review comments and required outside consultants. We outline the known steps after an initial review.
Can BAWI help legalize work that was already completed?
Often, yes. Existing work must be documented and evaluated for zoning, code and safety compliance. Corrections or additional construction may be required before approval.
What should I bring to the first consultation?
Share the property address, survey, photographs, existing drawings, permits, violations and any Building Department correspondence you have. A short description of your goals and priorities is also helpful.
Planning a Residential Project?
Tell us where the property is located, what you hope to change and where you are in the planning or permit process.