Services
The judgment of a builder, brought to your side of the table.
Design & Planning
For clients in the early stages, Severin works with owners and their architects to develop a project from concept to a buildable, budgeted plan.
- Programming and scope definition
- Design review for constructability and cost
- Phasing and scheduling strategy
- Contractor procurement planning
New Construction
Whether a primary residence, a guest house, or a working farm structure, the earliest decisions carry the largest impact on outcome and cost.
- Evaluate sites and assess buildability before committing
- Review plans and specifications for value
- Vet and select qualified contractors; analyze bids
- Establish realistic budgets and contingencies
- Oversight and milestone reviews through construction
- Manage punch lists and closeout
Renovation
Renovating an existing structure — especially an older one — carries risks that are difficult to anticipate without experience.
- Assess existing conditions before purchase or scope
- Develop realistic scopes and sequencing strategies
- Select and vet contractors appropriate to the work
- Represent the owner’s interests during construction
- Problem-solve unexpected conditions as they arise
- Identify where to spend and where to save
Historical Restoration & Preservation
Severin’s specialty. Restoring the Hudson Valley’s historic domestic and agricultural architecture well requires knowledge most contractors simply don’t have.
- Structural assessment of timber-frame and masonry
- Material selection consistent with historic character
- Traditional methods — and where modern is appropriate
- Navigation of local preservation review processes
- Coordination with conservators and craftspeople
- Documentation, research, and nomination support
Billing
Severin keeps track of his time and bills at an hourly rate.
Straightforward, and tied to the actual scope of involvement — whether that is an initial assessment, periodic advisory work, or ongoing owner’s representation through a project.
How it works
Four steps, and no obligation to begin.
Initial Conversation
A phone or in-person conversation to understand your project, your goals, and whether Severin can help. No obligation.
Site Visit
For most engagements, Severin visits the property to assess conditions, understand the context, and develop a clear picture of scope and complexity.
Proposal
A written proposal outlining the scope of consulting services — a fixed-fee assessment, an hourly advisory relationship, or full owner’s representation.
Engagement
Work begins. The depth of involvement is calibrated to the project’s needs and the client’s preferences throughout.