Thursday, November 12, 2009

November 11 - Construction Progress

The contractor, owner and I walked through the house to discuss all aspects of construction progress. At the entry, the finished floor at the ledge has been carefully removed in preparation for the custom-framing and mounting of the owners' antique wood screens. Throughout the house, most walls have been primed, along with the existing living room bookshelf - I confirmed with the contractor that the ladder will be primed as well. In the kitchen, all rough electrical and most rough plumbing is in place. This includes the installation of recessed lighting and location of pendant wiring in the ceiling. Framing of the built-in bench and shelving has also begun. Cabinets have been assembled but still require installation - for now they are conveniently stored in the living room next to the kitchen. Throughout the stairway, wallpaper is stripped - already the stairway looks more updated! The upstairs have been cleared out in preparation for upcoming carpet removal. In some of the rooms, the contractor also removed smoke residue left from previous owners. After the walk-through, the contractor and I discussed framing and mounting options of the wood screens. Due to their nuanced conditions, the contractor will test out our assumptions (widths of gaps, order of screens, height of screens from floors, etc) on site then call me back in a couple days to examine the rough framing. Once we agree on framing, the contractor will produce samples of the mounting mechanisms, which I will also examine. Upon the owner's final approval, the contractor will adjust the framing as required, enclose it with drywall, and mount the antique screens.