Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Selection of cohousing finishings

[Katie Henry (katie-henry]

At Heartwood Commons in Tulsa - 36 units, currently wrapping up construction 
and about 30% moved in - the members worked with the architects before 
construction began to choose unit finish options and quality levels. There were 
two color schemes (warm or cool) that determined flooring, cabinets, and 
countertops. Other than color, the materials were the same. Paint color was the 
same in all units. There were a few upgrade options (sun tunnels, small kitchen 
tweaks, bigger windows in certain unit types) that cost extra. 


Even with this relatively small amount of variation, managing the options 
across four different floor plans was an enormous logistical challenge. Your 
average multifamily builder is not equipped to manage a project of this 
complexity. This is veering into custom home territory and you will pay for 
that, if not up front, then in errors and rework later.

We provided a base appliance package plus an option to upgrade dishwasher and 
vent hood at owner's expense. The base appliances were nice, so nobody felt 
cheated. We're all electric and specified induction, so nobody changed their 
range. We only allowed this because our awesome appliance supplier was happy to 
manage the process. The architects were opposed because they were afraid people 
would order appliances that wouldn't fit in the openings or the plug would be 
in the wrong place. This actually did happen. A few members ordered roll-out 
microwave drawers that required special installation and electrical rework in 
the microwave cabinets. But those weren't mission-critical appliances and the 
owners will be paying for the work. Allowing appliance options did require some 
management effort but it was popular and not too much trouble. I would do it 
again.

The architects chose our interior and exterior colors. Allowing community 
members to choose colors is madness. What looks good in a home won't 
necessarily work in a large space with different lighting. Hire a professional.

It's good to see Oak Park Commons here on coho-L. Stick around. 

Katie HenryHeartwood Commons - 
Tulsahttps://www.facebook.com/HeartwoodCommonsTulsahttps://www.heartwoodcommonstulsa.com/



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For cohousers in a newly constructed community or one under/nearing
constriction, how have members been involved with the builder in
influencing/affecting selection of unit finishes? Who and how were the
choices you could make determined?

Thanks,

Alan Friedlob
Oak Park Commons Cohousing
Oak Park, IL