Expert: Richard Taylor, AIA - 6/5/2007

Question
Saw your answer to Erica's question about "raising the roof" so her attic rooms would have more vertical space.  I have a similar need, potentially 900 sq ft of walk-up attic space that is of limited use because an adult can only stand up in the middle few feet that represent the peak.

Is it usually cheaper to raise the ceiling height with kneewalls rather than reframing the entire floor?  I'm thinking of putting in dormers in addition to raising the roof.

Second, how would I find an architect/structural engineer who is familiar with this technique?  I'm in the Boston area.

Third, the house is a 1927 colonial, and many in the area, even in this neighborhood, have taller silhouettes and roomier attics.

Thanks!
Bob

Answer
Bob - thanks for your question!

It's not a difficult technique, any competent residential architect should be able to handle it.  Find one who's familiar with early 20th-century home (I bet there are dozens in Boston!).  Try your local AIA chapter for starters (www.aia.org).  Another place to look is one of your historical societies.  Also ask around - your neighbors have probably used architects for their work.

You'll need someone to look at the project on site to determine which approach is cheapest; the addition of the dormers complicates it a bit.  The condition of the existing structure will impact your decision also.

Hope this helps!

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