Redevelop This House

Here is a video of photos of 3401 Foster Ave. as it is today and Mel’s description of work. Things will probably change a little bit once he get’s started, they always do…

Overview:

Despite the long vacancy of 3401 Foster Avenue at Highland Avenue, its “bones” are in very good condition and it is ready to again become a premier addition to the Canton neighborhood.  It truly sits on the high land of Canton and the proper redevelopment will be spectacular, yet cost effective.  The house was originally a storefront and vestiges of the original use are still there waiting to be positively exploited in ways like a historical restoration of the front, huge living spaces perfect for easy entertaining, 3 or 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, full height walkout basement, parking for two cars, balconies, and “forever” views from a rooftop deck.  We are very excited about doing this project.

 The following description of our efforts will highlight our thoughts on the construction and the costs to deliver a house with a U and O certificate ready for a successful marketing of this property. 

 Comments and changes to this proposal are invited and welcome.

Qualification: 

Urban Rehab Consultants, LLC has been successfully providing sophisticated living spaces for over ten years in Canton, Fells Point, Little Italy, and Federal Hill. Our projects have been included in both the Canton Home Tour and the Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage.  We are known for great quality at affordable prices.  We eschew trendy touches and deliver classic value, design, and a sensibility suited to modern urban living.

 We are a MHIC licensed and insured contractor.  References and completed project tours and photos are available.  

 Completion Plan

 Exterior:

The front wall will have the existing form stone removed and the brick restored to its original hue and appearance on the upper level. The forms tome removal will reveal the unusable patch-in work done to eliminate the original storefront. Since the original load carrying framing is still intact, we will construct the front to have an extra wide front door and bay window with a cornice to provide a strikingly sophisticated covered entry.

The side and rear walls will receive a spray sand coating in a very neutral color to downplay its massiveness compared to the front.

The rear yard will be leveled with a new concrete slab providing parking for two cars.  A six foot privacy fence will be erected on the East and South sides.

There will be a 15 x 12 rooftop deck accessed via a door and non-spiral steps on the upper level.

Main Level:

The living/dining room will be a huge 15 x 37 with prefinished hardwood floors, ten foot ceilings, crown moldings, tray ceiling (for ductwork and recessed lighting), chair rail, and a full length exposed brick wall on the east (3403) wall. Special attention will be given to lighting (ready for two chandeliers and recessed lighting) to make this a classic space ready for a grand piano and a large dining table.

A first floor powder room will be incorporated near the staircases going to the upper and lower levels.

The kitchen/family room will have mid-grade Kraft maid cabinets in a rich finish with crown molding trim.  There will be an island with seating for four.  All surfaces will be granite, all appliances GE Profile level. 

The hardwood will step up and continue from the living room.  There will be a set of French doors to separate the formal living room from the kitchen family room.

The rear wall will be plumbed-in for a direct vent fireplace flanked by glass doors opening onto an 8 x 15 balcony. There will be ample room in front of a fireplace for a sofa.

Second Level:

Things calm down a little on the second (sleeping) level.  There will be three bedrooms approximately 15 x 15, 12 x 13, and 12 x 13.  The hallways will be a continuation of the hardwoods from the first floor and stairs with the bedrooms carpeted for sound control.

There will be two full baths with one being incorporated into the Master Bedroom.

There will be a laundry center on this level.

A hallway will extend from the top of the stairs directly to a door leading to the a balcony and traditional stairs for access to the rooftop deck thus eliminating one bedroom becoming a pass through room as is so often seen in row houses needing access to a rooftop deck. 

The bedroom closest to the balcony and roof top deck stairs will have double doors and rough-in for a wet bar to allow for possible use as an entertainment room supporting deck parties.

Hammered iron railings will be on the stairs and landings for a sophisticated and light feeling.

Lower Level:

The lower level will have a huge finished room in the front (15 x 35) that could be used as a media/game room, fourth bedroom, home office, or an in-law suite. Full bath and outside access will be incorporated.

The rear portion (15 x 25) will be a finished utility room with direct access to the parking spaces and the stairs to the kitchen.