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Whole House Remodel

"Historic property remodeling is like opening Pandora’s box."
  1. Intro
  2. Goals
  3. Floor Plans
  4. Obstacles
  5. Gallery
  6. Conclusion
  7. Testimonial

INTRO

Unexpected and confounding issues are culprits for undermining a day’s planned work schedule. Clearly, the success to any project is driven by communication. And for the successful metamorphosis of our featured remodel, communication was the principal defining and driving force. Continuous, succinct, and consistent communication in collaboration with the client was essential by virtue of moment to moment design changes meshed with unanticipated evolving project goals. What began as cosmetic interventions with slight room modifications, project goals grew in complexity and size.

Goals

Re-vitalize the dark and time worn interior to include:
  • Preparation and painting of the kitchen cabinets;
  • Preparation and painting of the walls throughout the house to lighten;
  • Clean and reseal the dark, blemished mud floors throughout the house;
  • Modify the laundry room and possibly the master bathroom. (The terms for the scope of work involved cosmetic interventions to brighten the rooms with minimal adjustments.)
  • Assess the condition of the exterior stucco and wood structures : make recommendations.
In the Owner’s words: “Our goal was to take a ‘tired and neglected’ property possessing “potential’ and having it restored into a center of warmth, charm, comfort, and a ‘feel’ speaking ‘rustic elegance’.” This new outlook for an evolving remodel grew into what became the ‘Owner’s Global Project Goals’ with the final Scope of Work to be performed on a T & M basis, with a rough budget. This included:
  • Design development during selective demolition phase;
  • Integrate contemporary design elements in maintaining the hacienda ambiance;
  • Create a means to usher more light into the house;
  • Install an AC and supplemental heating system.;
  • Salvage and reclaim components of the original home/property for design-specific re-fabrication that fulfilled the Client’s remodel desires. (This was driven by the Owners’ frugality, inclination for sustainability, and desire to capture the soulful energy
    and special connection to the original property.
  • Remove the mud flooring in disrepair throughout the house with hopes of salvaging/restoring/conserving the floors of the master bedroom and one guest bedroom.
  • Install ceiling lights in areas of major remodel work with possible relocation of main electrical panel;
  • Explore various exterior upgrades and repairs to include: 1) cracked concrete under portale at current main entry, 2) Save/restore boiler/mechanical room door (exterior access) to eliminate rat infestation problem.
  • Assess condition of all exterior finishes; landscaping possibilities
  • Repaint all exterior wood framed windows with a different color; vigas and portale ceiling included.

Floor Plans

Obstacles &
Solutions

1

Synchronizing a cohesive and flexible Scope of Work with evolving ‘daily decisions’, with the interior designer client, and still maintain a steady forward work momentum.

Establish regular, collaborative meetings with the interior designer to review daily updates, ensuring that changes align with the project's overall vision. Utilize a project management tool to track these updates and maintain momentum, adjusting the Scope of Work document as necessary.

Obstacle

2

Meeting the Owner’s April 2017 Completion Date to accommodate the arrival of overseas guests.

Implement a fast-track project schedule, prioritizing critical tasks that directly impact the completion timeline, such as roofing and structural work. Allocate additional resources to ensure tasks are completed within a reduced timeframe.

Obstacle

3

Faced with a compressed weather sensitive schedule, the integration and sequencing of roof work (roof tear off commenced first week of November 2016): a) roof rot encountered, placement of electrical conduits, electrical rewiring, & installing HVAC system, b) the interior of the house was open to the elements, necessitating secure covers for protection:

a) To address the roof rot and integration with other systems, secure contractors specializing in expedited roofing repairs. Coordinate closely with electricians and HVAC installers to sequence tasks effectively and minimize delays. b) Use durable, weatherproof tarps and temporary structures to protect the interior from elements. Install these as soon as roofing work starts to safeguard the exposed areas of the house.

Obstacle

4

The Owner’s requested installation of a concealed split HVAC system, both inside and outside the home. a) installation of ducts complicated roof drainage and a new roof. b) creating an aesthetical camouflage for HVAC system on roof.

a) Collaborate with HVAC and roofing experts to plan the duct layout around drainage points, preserving the roof’s integrity while accommodating the new HVAC system. b) To camouflage the HVAC units aesthetically, design custom enclosures that match the roof’s existing style or utilize rooftop landscaping techniques to blend the units into the overall design.

Obstacle

5

Electrical rewiring of the entire house, required by State of NM for code compliance, necessitated channeling throughout every interior adobe wall. *The necessity to rewire the entire house was not originally known.

Engage with a skilled team of electricians experienced in adobe structures to plan minimal-impact channeling, preserving wall integrity as much as possible. Use specialized tools to reduce damage to the existing adobe walls while ensuring compliance with NM regulations.

Obstacle

6

Conserving and stabilizing existing glazed earthen floors in failing condition in select rooms of the home to retain the feel of ‘old Southwest charm’ .

Work with flooring experts to salvage and stabilize existing floors using reinforcement materials. Where floors are beyond repair, consider sourcing local materials that replicate the original aesthetic, maintaining the old Southwest charm.

Obstacle

7

Extensive wood rot found in 90 % exterior exposed beam window headers resulted in major unplanned remediation and exterior re-stucco.

Develop a detailed plan for replacing the affected beams with new, treated wood to prevent future rot. For the stucco, match the color and texture to the original exterior to retain the home’s historical appearance while implementing protective measures against further rot.

Obstacle

8

North elevation portale: significant rot was discovered in all beams, vigas, and supports- necessitating replacement.

Source rot-resistant wood for replacement beams and supports, ensuring compatibility with the home’s historical style. Utilize architectural drawings to ensure structural stability and aesthetic alignment with the original portale design.

Obstacle

9

Two heating manifolds had to be relocated: a) A heating manifold was contained in a vestigial wall-like partition in the laundry room; this curious protrusion intersected the shared laundry room and master bathroom wall, and b) during conversion of the kitchen pantry into a refrigerator alcove; a heating manifold was discovered in the posterior wall during demolition.

a) Coordinate with HVAC professionals to relocate the laundry room manifold into a less intrusive space, such as a recessed cabinet, optimizing flow between spaces. b) For the kitchen pantry conversion, integrate the heating manifold within a newly constructed wall, possibly concealing it behind a panel or within cabinetry for easy access.

Obstacle

10

Installation of 8’ x 1’ skylight above the master bathroom that transversed 4 vigas in a horizontal plane: heightened the need to avoid impacting the integration of multiple roof structures, electrical wiring, and the HVAC system.

Collaborate with a structural engineer to ensure the skylight’s integration without compromising roof stability or utility installations. Modify beam placements or use structural supports to accommodate the skylight without disrupting electrical wiring or HVAC routing.

Obstacle
A cozy, sunlit room featuring a large red rug, wooden ceiling beams, and glass doors that let in natural light. The space is decorated with comfortable seating, vibrant colors, and cultural art, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment.
Audio Visual Room
A beautifully renovated hallway featuring terracotta tile floors, wooden beams, and soft lighting. The space leads from the kitchen to the master bedroom, with natural wood cabinetry and a skylight that adds warmth and brightness to the inviting design.
Hallway
A charming Southwestern-style kitchen with terracotta tile floors, white cabinetry, and exposed wooden beams. The space is adorned with colorful rugs, a central island, and a chandelier, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for cooking and dining.
Kitchen
A warm, Southwestern-inspired bathroom featuring terracotta tile floors, wooden cabinets, and a walk-in shower with decorative tile accents. Exposed wooden beams add rustic charm, while colorful rugs provide a cozy, vibrant touch to the inviting space.
Master Bathroom
A cozy, rustic-style bedroom with a wooden ceiling and beams, featuring a comfortable bed, warm lighting, and a seating area by the window with wicker chairs. A small fireplace adds warmth and charm to the inviting, Southwestern-inspired decor.
Master Bedroom
A flat, tan rooftop with several skylights and an air conditioning unit, set against a backdrop of desert hills. The smooth, finished surface and clear sky indicate completed renovation work, blending modern infrastructure with the natural landscape.
Roof
A dimly lit room with exposed wooden ceiling beams, a ceiling fan, and a large window that brings in natural light. The space appears empty, with a bare floor and minimal furnishings, suggesting it's ready for renovation or decoration.
Before
Progress
After
An exterior view of a room under renovation, featuring newly installed red-framed glass doors. Construction materials, including bricks and a wheelbarrow, are scattered outside, indicating ongoing work on the building and its surrounding area.
Before
Progress
After
A partially renovated exterior wall with an open window frame, showing ongoing construction work. The surrounding plaster wall is intact, while tools and materials are visible inside the room, indicating preparations for further updates or installations.
Before
Progress
After
A cozy, sunlit room featuring a large red rug, wooden ceiling beams, and glass doors that let in natural light. The space is decorated with comfortable seating, vibrant colors, and cultural art, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment.
Before
Progress
After
A narrow hallway with rustic plaster walls and wooden beams overhead, leading from the kitchen to the master bedroom. The simple, unfinished flooring and minimal lighting create a cozy yet slightly dated atmosphere in this passageway.
Before
Progress
After
A beautifully renovated hallway featuring terracotta tile floors, wooden beams, and soft lighting. The space leads from the kitchen to the master bedroom, with natural wood cabinetry and a skylight that adds warmth and brightness to the inviting design.
Before
Progress
After
A rustic kitchen door with a wire rack organizer leads to a storage or pantry area. The space features earthy-toned plaster walls and wooden beams, creating a warm, traditional Southwestern design, with small decorative elements enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
Before
Progress
After
A rustic kitchen with wooden beams, a ceiling fan, and a large central island. The space features a stainless steel refrigerator, a traditional-style stove, and earthy-toned plaster elements, creating a warm, Southwestern-inspired atmosphere.
Before
Progress
After
A kitchen under renovation with exposed framing and insulation. The area is prepared for new installations, with wires and pipes visible. The unfinished walls and protective floor covering indicate ongoing construction work in the space.
Before
Progress
After
A kitchen wall in the process of renovation, with exposed electrical wiring and outlets. The surrounding area is partially covered with plastic sheeting for protection, and unfinished brickwork is visible, indicating ongoing construction work.
Before
Progress
After
A kitchen under renovation featuring exposed wooden beams on the ceiling. Cabinets and a range hood are installed, while unfinished counters and a ladder indicate ongoing work. The space is being prepared for further updates and finishing touches.
Before
Progress
After
A kitchen under renovation with walls stripped down to reveal wiring and insulation. The window brings in natural light, while missing cabinets and exposed surfaces indicate ongoing construction and preparation for new installations.
Before
Progress
After
A kitchen under renovation with exposed walls and electrical wiring beneath a set of windows. The area is prepped for new installations, with missing cabinets and unfinished surfaces indicating ongoing remodeling work. Natural light enters through the windows.
Before
Progress
After
A kitchen space in the middle of renovation, with exposed studs, wiring, and insulation. The framed area is prepped for new appliances, while the walls remain unfinished, signaling ongoing construction and remodeling efforts.
Before
Progress
After
A beautifully renovated kitchen featuring terracotta tile floors, white cabinets, and a central wooden island. The space is adorned with colorful plates, a chandelier, and exposed wooden beams, creating a warm, inviting, Southwestern-inspired atmosphere.
Before
Progress
After
A charming Southwestern-style kitchen with terracotta tile floors, white cabinetry, and exposed wooden beams. The space is adorned with colorful rugs, a central island, and a chandelier, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for cooking and dining.
Before
Progress
After
A beautifully renovated hallway featuring terracotta tile floors, wooden beams, and soft lighting. The space leads from the kitchen to the master bedroom, with natural wood cabinetry and a skylight that adds warmth and brightness to the inviting design.
Before
Progress
After
A small bathroom with a narrow sink and tiled floor, leading into a larger main bathroom area with wooden cabinets and a window. The space features basic fixtures and appears dated, suggesting the need for an update or renovation.
Before
Progress
After
A bathroom under renovation, with exposed plumbing and insulation visible in the walls. A small sink is partially covered for protection, and construction work is underway, with unfinished walls and materials in place for further remodeling.
Before
Progress
After
A bathroom under renovation, with exposed insulation and plumbing in the wall. Tools and construction materials are scattered, and a window is covered for protection. The partially removed wall and exposed pipes indicate ongoing remodeling work.
Before
Progress
After
A bedroom in the middle of renovation, with exposed wiring and partially patched walls. Plastic sheets cover areas to protect from dust, and materials are rolled on the floor. Natural light streams through the windows, highlighting the construction progress.
Before
Progress
After
A warm, Southwestern-inspired bathroom featuring terracotta tile floors, wooden cabinets, and a walk-in shower with decorative tile accents. Exposed wooden beams add rustic charm, while colorful rugs provide a cozy, vibrant touch to the inviting space.
Before
Progress
After
A beautifully renovated bathroom featuring warm terracotta tiles, wooden cabinetry, and a spacious walk-in shower with elegant tile work. The ceiling showcases exposed wooden beams, while colorful rugs add a vibrant, cozy touch to the space.
Before
Progress
After
A bedroom undergoing renovation, with exposed wiring and patched walls in progress. Plastic sheeting covers some areas, and rolled-up materials lie on the floor. Natural light streams in through the windows, highlighting the unfinished space.
Before
Progress
After
A cozy, rustic-style bedroom with a wooden ceiling and beams, featuring a comfortable bed, warm lighting, and a seating area by the window with wicker chairs. A small fireplace adds warmth and charm to the inviting, Southwestern-inspired decor.
Before
Progress
After
A woman sits on a flat, gravel-covered rooftop surrounded by desert hills and vegetation. Various roof vents and skylights are visible, and the light-colored stucco walls match the natural surroundings, creating a peaceful, remote setting.
Before
Progress
After
A rooftop under construction or renovation, with wooden structures, cables, and various equipment scattered across the surface. The surrounding desert landscape and trees are visible in the background, indicating an ongoing outdoor project in a remote area.
Before
Progress
After
A rooftop undergoing repair or maintenance, with partially removed or damaged tiles and scattered tools. An orange extension cord lies across the surface, indicating ongoing work. The surrounding desert landscape and light-colored walls are visible in the background.
Before
Progress
After
A flat, tan-colored rooftop with multiple skylights and an air conditioning unit sits against a backdrop of desert hills and scattered vegetation. The clean and finished surface contrasts with the natural landscape, suggesting completed renovation work.
Before
Progress
After
A flat, tan rooftop with several skylights and an air conditioning unit, set against a backdrop of desert hills. The smooth, finished surface and clear sky indicate completed renovation work, blending modern infrastructure with the natural landscape.
Before
Progress
After

Conclusion

We believe this whole house remodel exemplifies ‘excellence in remodeling’. Our creative, flexible,
enterprising attention to detail and scrupulous management, in close communication with superb clients,
resulted in an exceptional and striking production. Situated on over 50 acres, the historic adobe hacienda
was transformed into a “center of warmth, charm, comfort and a feel of rustic elegance.” In the end, the
project outcome successfully delighted the Clients’ and satisfied their goals, expectations and precise
deadline for an April 2017 work completion.

VIEW FINAL PROJECT GALLERY

Testimonial

    Our collaborative relationship with them and continual sharing of ideas throughout this project proved the Fabu-WALL-ous team to be more than just Contractors - but Confidantes and Partners as well...Goal Met!

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