How Long Do Lobby Renovations Take?

When it comes to renovating your condo or co-op lobby, one issue typically stands out: “How long do lobby renovations take?”

As the founder and lead designer of Sygrove Associates Design Group, a leading NYC condo and co-op lobby interior design firm, I’m in a very good position to answer this question. While every building and project is unique, there always are three consistent phases. Our experience enables us to provide our clients with a comprehensive timeline and keep all stakeholders well-informed throughout the process.

Renovating a condo or co-op lobby is a complex task, and one of the top concerns is how long the residents and staff will be inconvenienced. The good news is that the most time-consuming parts of the project take place long before the first contractor steps into the building.

So, how long will your condo or co-op lobby renovation take? To illustrate, here is a typical lobby renovation timeline that we follow for projects that come into our studio:

Phase 1: Planning & Design – Two to Three Months

The planning and design phase creates the foundation for the lobby renovation and is a critical part of the timeline. This is when meetings take place, and critical decisions are made, such as:

• Upgrading the doorman station
• Increasing storage space
• Creating amenity spaces such as a fitness area or playroom
• Determining how much seating is needed
• Replacing the floor, raising the ceiling, or installing new entrance doors
• Optimum staff workflow/general traffic flow
• Style & color story
• Fabrics & upholstery
• Flooring
• Artwork

Explore Our Lobby Designs >>

Phase 2: Bid Documents & Contractor Selection – Two to Three Months

• Once the final floor plan and design are approved:
• Preparing detailed bid documents; plans, and specifications
• Assisting clients with the selection of contractors
• Preparing a bid/cost analysis for the client

Phase 3: Procurement – Two to Three Months

The procurement phase is a waiting period that encompasses the ordering, fabrication, and delivery of materials. It’s a strategic pause that ensures when the first hammer strikes, it’s part of a seamless orchestration of events designed to minimize inconveniences for residents and staff. It’s a complex phase that involves:
Preparing purchasing documents for materials, furniture + furnishings

Reviewing contractors’ submittal samples and shop drawings for custom elements such as light fixtures, furniture, and millwork
Working with the building’s management team to coordinate existing or newly purchased building communication systems

Reviewing samples and finalizing sample paint colors and finishes at the site with the client for approvals

A well-planned procurement phase will avoid stops and starts during the construction phase. Due to our long-standing relationships with top vendors, our projects often take priority – an added benefit for our clients!

Phase 4: Construction – Four to Six Months

The scope of the work drives the actual timeframe for the work at the site. Are we replacing the floor or, for example, in the case of a gorgeous terrazzo floor in one of our recent projects, are we repairing and refinishing heritage elements that residents want to keep?

Has something been demolished and site dimensions taken so fabrication can commence on new entry doors or fitted custom cabinetry? Or do plaster molds need to be made and poured to replace existing crumbling ceiling details? Are there items being fabricated off-site while finish work is being done at the site so they arrive seamlessly on schedule?

We go the extra mile for residents and staff. If the scope includes replacing mailboxes or locating them in a different location, we arrange for the contractors to construct a temporary mail set-up so mail delivery is not interrupted. The same is true if we’re replacing the doorman’s desk. Either the existing desk or a temporary desk is set up in a location that continues servicing the lobby while the traffic flow may be temporarily directed away from the flooring installation. This ensures that package distribution continues and the mechanical HVAC systems keep working to keep everyone comfortable.

Managing a NYC condo and co-op lobby renovation is very much like a ballet. Our staff are pros at workflow and keeping a lobby fully operational through the construction phase. All along the way, we communicate with the board, the property manager, and through them, the residents, so everyone knows what’s going on and what to anticipate.

If you’re considering a lobby renovation, I invite you to reach out to me at Sygrove Associates Design Group, where we’ll approach your project with the care, expertise, and meticulous planning it deserves. Let’s discuss how we can transform your lobby into a space that reflects the heart of your building.

What does your lobby’s next chapter look like? Let’s start writing it together.

212.757.0631
hello@sygrove.com

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