Problems and Remodeling Obstacles:

1. This two-story masonry residence was originally built as a duplex, adding to the neighborhood problem of absentee landlords & contributing to the criminal element.

2. Limited budget, major renovation called for creative remodeling measures.
3. Prior to a fire destroying most ot the interior walls and the floors the house was vandalized. After the fire it was boarded up for ten years awaiting demolition which never occurred because of the neighborhood’s historic status.
4. A masonry bearing wall built down the center of the house posed a challenge to laying out the new rooms for this spacious single family residence.
5. The center wall served as a restraining element.

6. The addition in the rear of the structure posed several additional problems by itself:

a. The new layout design didn’t flow with the design of the original structure.

b. There was more square footage than was needed.

c. It was inferior construction.

7. The removal would also add to the long list of problems?

a. Construction costs were already over budget.

b. Once back wall was removed there was evidence of inferior support for entire structure.

c. The foundation had to be leveled to rebuild new exterior rear wall

d. Replacement wall brick had to match existing brick to give the same overall appearance.
8. Entire inside had to be gutted, temporarily reinforcing walls while tearing down others.

9. To increase selling potential the architectural design had to bring contemporary amenities typically found in suburban residences to and urban dwelling.

10. All deteriorating bricks had to removed and replaced.