North Star Condo Remodel
anchorage, AK
a little background
Project Information
Built in 1976, this property is part of a larger condominium townhouse project on a hill overlooking the majestic Chugach Mountains in Anchorage, Alaska. Located just a 5-minute drive from downtown and walking distance the Coastal Trail, a walking, biking, and cross-country skiing trail that circumvents the Anchorage coastline to the Knik Arm. There are good schools, as well as an up-and-coming restaurant and bar scene in the transitional neighborhood of Spenard just a few blocks away.
The North Star Townhouse Style Condominium was the first home purchase with my husband Peter in 2006. This was the perfect place to put
Property Stats
Two-Levels
2 Bedrooms
2.5 Baths, 1 w/sauna
1306 sf
Wall-to-wall carpet
Linoleum in Baths & Kitchen
a look back
Before The Remodel
what needed to be done
Scope of Work
Installed bamboo floors were throughout the unit, travertine floor tiles in wet areas, paint throughout, and radiant electric heating with thermostat in lower level bathrooms.
Replacements
Kitchen countertops with granite, adding a full-height backsplash, new kitchen sink, and installing new plumbing fixtures; added a coat closet near the powder room on the unit’s top floor.
Stair treads and risers, structure, finishes, handrails, and guardrails were all replaced.
Upgrades
Master bath was upgraded by removing the sauna and installing a new whirlpool tub, dual vanity, and walk-in shower with glass surround; added a separate door to master closet.
Second bath and powder room upgrades included new tile wainscot, vanities, and granite countertops.
Additions
Added a closet to the second bedroom and replaced existing closet doors with translucent glass doors.
all in a day’s work
Project Challenges
The economy was showing signs of slowing down in Alaska and I got laid off. With more time on my hands, I took on the roles of Project Architect, Construction Manager, and Owner’s Representative. Subcontractors were hired, we managed and hired workers, and closely watched the budget.
We did a lot of the work ourselves including the installation of wall and floor tile, electrical, drywall, bamboo floor, and painting for the project. Even though there were several surprises along the way that caused add-ons including uncovered structural damage to the stairs, plumbing issues, and sloped floors. We also discovered some old pecan tongue-and-groove wall paneling that we chose to re-use in the master bedroom walk-in closet.
finding answers
Project Solutions
After a recent visit to hire a new property manager and prepare the condo for new tenants, I’m happy to say that the durable materials we selected have withstood the test of time: 3 tenants and 7 years of wear and tear without any issues.
The current rent is nearly $1000/month more than the average rent for the area.
Ready To Build Something?
Let's discuss what you have in mind for your next project and how we might be able to help.
Ready To Build Something?
Let's discuss what you have in mind for your next project and how we might be able to help.
YSL ARCHITECTURE
We are a full-service architecture firm based in Hawthorne, CA. We offer residential, commercial, and tenant improvement services with an emphasis on sustainable design to clients in the state of California.
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