In this blog I will do my best to describe the process I went through in turning my 1957 Ranch-style house into a 2006 Craftsman house as inspired by the Gamble House in Pasadena. Please feel free to comment on anything I write and ask questions as it is the only way we learn.

Note: Since completion of the house I have also decided to allow guest bloggers to post articles related to remodeling. This continues the education process.


TIMELINE
Architect Selection - December 2002 through January 2003
Getting a Permit - January 2003 through November 2004
Construction - November 2004 through September 2006
Post Construction - October 2006 through ???



Partial Demolition Permit Received

Well we got a permit to allow for a partial demolition. The Art Jury is holding this up saying that they want to see some details on the plans.
Add/Review Comments


School District Construction Fee

I hope this is the last one.
Add/Review Comments


Hired General Contractor

Today we hired our general contractor, Rich Wright Construction. Rich was highly recommended by everyone I talked to and is a master woodworker. He also surfs!
Add/Review Comments


Go Out For Contractor Bids

Today we sent out packages to four different contractors to start the bid process. I used Service Magic to get matched up to contractors that could do this sort of work.
We need to get this going as the contractor will be pulling the permits.
Add/Review Comments


City Plan Check Fees

The City asked for more money today to look at the plans.
Add/Review Comments


Drawings Sent to Structural Engineer

The design Development drawings were sent to the structural engineer at Palos Verdes Engineering.
Add/Review Comments


Art Jury Wants More Money

The Art Jury is requesting another payment to look at the plans.
Add/Review Comments


Soils Engineer Survey Performed

Tony Lee, a soils engineer, came out today to take core samples of the soil around 4 parts of the house.
Add/Review Comments


City Requests Soils Report

The city has requested a soils report today.
Add/Review Comments


Silhouette Comes Down

The silhouette finally can come down now that we waited the 15 days appeal time following the Planning Commission meeting.
Add/Review Comments


Next Page

Be sure to browse the 2,000 picture Photo Gallery for more step-by-step construction details.