Upper East Side Residential Interior

Upper East Side Residential Interior

Rojas AP was hired by the owners to facilitate a code-compliant design and streamline the approvals process for their two-bedroom renovation. The firm was charged with coordination for the Coop Board, Landmarks Preservation Committee, and NYC DOB and supervising construction through sign-offs. The team coordinated with the design firm BHDM to ensure code and building compliance through architectural solutions. For instance, the owners did not want the washer and dryer to be accessed through the kitchen, but the wet over dry requirements constrained its location to the kitchen footprint. Rojas AP creatively located the washer and dryer in the kitchen area, but rotated its opening 180 degrees, for access from an adjacent utility room. During construction, a challenge arose involving a shared party wall that when exposed by demolition, was found to not be properly constructed. Rojas AP coordinated with the building’s consultant and provided SK drawings to propose a four-inch aerated concrete block wall. This alternative guaranteed the two rooms a rated exterior wall.

LOCATION
NEW YORK, NY

Architect of Record for High End Residential Apartment

Architect of Record for High End Residential Apartment

Rojas AP was engaged as the architect of record for an exceptional interior renovation project in a prestigious unit located within a high-end residential complex in Rye, NY. The scope of work encompasses a wide range of enhancements, including fixture and appliance replacements, as well as the installation of new finishes and lighting. We assumed primary responsibility for securing necessary approvals from the board and the Rye Building Department, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. The initiation of the board review posed significant challenges due to the recent construction of the apartment complex and the absence of established guidelines and protocols for alterations. Nevertheless, our team expertly navigated these obstacles to move the project forward successfully. To streamline communication and enhance organization, Rojas AP has implemented an efficient project board on Monday.com. This dynamic platform serves as a centralized hub, meticulously organizing all project specifications and submittals. By utilizing this innovative tool, we facilitate transparent collaboration and keep all stakeholders informed throughout the duration of the project. Rojas AP is proud to be entrusted with the architectural record for this prestigious interior renovation project. With a focus on obtaining necessary approvals and leveraging our expertise in high-end residential design, we are dedicated to bringing forth a truly remarkable transformation and efficient execution from start to finish.

LOCATION
WESTCHESTER, NY

Flatbush Single Family Renovation

Flatbush Single Family Renovation

Rojas AP was introduced to this job by Mike’s Home Solutions (MHS), a general contractor that already had a relationship with the owner of this house. Rojas AP was brought on to review the scope of work for code compliance and prepare drawings for NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) filing. The house was a childhood home that the client was looking to update for her family’s needs. The team at MHS worked closely with Rojas AP to create a base design plan that we were able to transform into a filing set for approvals. During plan review there were objections about the legitimacy of the third floor bedroom and bathroom. Without a Certificate of Occupancy, Rojas AP worked with historical photos and housing records to prove to the DOB that this bedroom met all historical code requirements and could remain as such. The construction phase went smoothly and Rojas AP was able to inspect and obtain final sign-off for this project.

LOCATION
BROOKLYN, NY

Upper West Side Window Replacement

Upper West Side Window Replacement

Rojas AP was hired by the unit owner to coordinate Coop Board and Landmarks Preservation Committee (LCP) approval for the combination replacement and restoration of the 10th and 11th-floor windows. The owner wanted to replace the existing two-story window unit with a more energy-efficient one. The old unit was drafty and also allowed water to infiltrate the unit, causing deterioration of the existing steel frame and interior finishes. The scope was presented to the LPC Commission by the window contractor prior to Rojas AP’s involvement. The LPC granted approval for the replacement but required the window mullions to be reconfigured to a historical condition. Rojas AP was then hired to both satisfy the LPC requirements and allow the owner to keep the expanded view of Central Park. The solution Rojas AP proposed was to replace the 11th-floor window and spandrel section, but only repair the 10th-floor portion, thereby saving the desired mullion configuration. In addition to coordinating approvals with the LPC, Rojas AP was also in charge of reviewing the proposals, timelines, and payment applications from all professionals involved.

LOCATION
NEW YORK, NY

Upper West Side Zoning Analysis

Upper West Side Zoning Analysis

Rojas AP was hired by the prospective owner of the building to determine the vertical extension potential of the existing property. The client’s intent was to obtain LPC staff-level approval that would allow him to build a new story for a music room. Given that it is a building in a historic district, in addition to the bulk regulations set forth by the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) Rules, NYC Zoning Resolution would apply. Rojas AP cross-referenced its findings and was able to determine that although the maximum height was 125’, the allowable LPC envelope dimensions were less. The analysis included a PDF with the building location map, a schematic building section, and an interactive video animation of the 3D model showing building bulk capacity from all street view locations shown in the location map.

LOCATION
NEW YORK, NY

Upper East Side Apartment

Upper East Side Apartment

Rojas AP worked with the property owner of this six-story apartment building to renovate three apartments stacked vertically on the 4th, 5th, and 6th floors. The former four-bedroom apartments were turned into three-bedroom units so that the living room, kitchen, and study could enjoy a more spacious and integrated area now facing Central Park. Rojas AP took advantage of the space gained by the removal of an obsolete fireplace and chimneys. Also, the renovation to the top three floors provided straight-forward roof access for mechanical equipment to serve the renovated apartments. Rojas AP worked with NYC Landmarks to gain approval for the rooftop equipment. In addition coordination between the interior designer, mechanical engineer, and structural engineer was provided by Rojas AP.

LOCATION
NEW YORK, NY

Real Estate Developer Corporate Headquarters

Real Estate Developer Corporate Headquarters

Rojas AP worked closely with Interior Design firm C McKEOUGH Unltd. for the interior renovation of four stories, second through the fifth floor, of new office space for a Real Estate Developer’s headquarters. The new corporate headquarters acquired a spacious new break room, lounge area, training room, kitchen, both open and closed office spaces, conference rooms, mechanical rooms, and ADA compliant bathrooms. Focused efforts were on code compliance and coordination with mechanical and plumbing trades. Rojas AP was responsible for the filing plans, required approvals, and sign-offs.

LOCATION
NEW ROCHELE, NY

Professional Office Renovation

Professional Office Renovation

Rojas AP designed and led the construction for the interior renovation of its new office space located in downtown Jamaica. The previous layout was set up for a medical office, and it included five private rooms, a reception, a kitchen, and a bathroom. To accommodate its growing team of architects and planners, Rojas AP proposed one conference room, for occasional client and weekly internal meetings. The kitchen, previously raised by a platform, was leveled with the rest of the space, and new cabinetry and a sink were installed. Due to the existing plumbing waste pipe, the bathroom remained elevated. For privacy, a new partition was proposed separating the open office space from the bathroom and kitchen area. There, a living green wall was installed to improve the overall comfort level and air quality of the space. To take advantage of all the existing windows, and maximize the natural light and cross-ventilation, the interior partitions were removed creating an open and collaborative area of work. One private office was proposed for the principal.

LOCATION
QUEENS, NY