Expert: Richard Taylor, AIA - 8/5/2007

Question
What's a ball-park figure for what I should plan for on a Prairie Ranch Remodel?  My husband and I are also contemplating taking a 1-story T-shaped ranch nestled up against the foothills in an exclusive neighborhood where a 2-story remodel across the street has blocked spectacular views.  We love the ranch style, and would only consider this type of experience if we could keep the integrity of the original design.  Your sample @ http://www.rtastudio.com/Portfolio/Transformations/Prairie/Prairie%20Ranch%20Rem... was impressive.  But what can we expect to invest for this project?

Answer
Good morning Nicolle - thanks for your question!

There are so many factors that come into play here - it may be impossible to give you a meaningful cost range.

The project you saw on our website involved the addition of a second floor, a stair, and a remodeling of all of the first-floor area below.  The existing roof/ceiling structure was replaced to become the new second floor, and an additional HVAC system was added.  All of the windows were replaced; the house was re-roofed, and the stucco was repaired/repainted.

In today's dollars, the project would be about $285,000 (in central Ohio).

So much depends on what you want to add - bedrooms, baths, etc. and on the condition of the existing house (some are easier to add onto than others).  The cost will also vary widely by your location, the requirements of your HOA, local building codes, etc.

I'd recommend you contact a local Architect to visit the house and give you an evaluation of what you're proposing.  Be sure you find someone who specializes in residential architecture - it's an important distinction.

You might start with your local AIA chapter, which you can find at www.aia.org.  You might also ask around the area, find out who's done good remodeling design.

Hope this helps!

Richard Taylor, AIA
www.rtastudio.com
www.rtaplans.com