Every now and then we come across a simple but brilliant device that makes our jobs easier and provides a great solution for home owners.  The Door Saver is one such device that we found at the recent Home Builders Show in Las Vegas.  Its ultra-low-profile design replaces the hinge pin to create bumperless protection for doors and trim.  It is simple to install, looks great, is made with strong carbon steel and comes in four finishes.  So no more bumpers installed onto your beautiful floors and no more missing rubber caps.  This is a very elegant way to control your door swing without damaging casing, floors and walls.  http://www.doorsaver.com/doorsaver2.html.
 

One of our industry's greatest challenges is gaining the trust of a new client.  This is especially important for clients who have never before undertaken a major home improvement project.  Concerns about quality and honesty, fair pricing and talent are all of paramount concern.  An important distinction between one general contracting firm and another is the manner in which the client is presented with the estimate for the project.  There are basically two approaches to this step.  Many contractors present the lowest priced possible scenario with limited details and a quick turnaround time.  This approach requires the least amount of time and experience on the part of the contractor.   Split Rock's approach is to present our clients with an all-inclusive estimate with no surprises and with as much detail possible.   This approach requires a significant investment of time on our part and can often give Split Rock's estimate the appearance of being more expensive than some of our competitors.  However, it is the most transparent approach possible and provides the client with the information and choices necessary for such an undertaking.  It is the correct way to do things and the first step in creating real value and trust.  Click here to see a recent article written on our response to this topic on Nearsay's website.

For New York City residents, Nearsay is the best way to stay in front of
breaking news, local business offerings and deals, happenings within the arts and entertainment, and just about anything else noteworthy for our city.  If you haven't tried it yet, check it out at http://newyork.nearsay.com.  It is an amazing resource for residents and businesses alike.  Here is a recent article Nearsay provided on Split Rock's work regarding outdoor spaces.  http://newyork.nearsay.com/nyc/washington-heights-inwood/real-estate-build-your-dream-patio-spring-split-rock-associates.

Split Rock Associates is proud and excited to be invited into the Luxe Box family of accomplished design+build professionals.  Luxe Box is an exclusive resource that helps high-end homeowners with all of their design needs – from concept to completion.  Split Rock Associates is featured as one of the exclusive builders and remodelers among this family of talented design+build professionals.  Click here to see our featured listing. 

We were shocked to learn that the general contracting industry has experienced a bad reputation at times!  Seriously though, we all know a story about someone who hired a contractor who was all or some of the following:  dishonest, not licensed, underinsured, untalented, incompetent or just simply indifferent to their clients' needs.  Every industry has their share of these types.  One of our clients, prior to hiring Split Rock, hired a contractor who demonstrated all of the above traits.  Our client, a dentist by profession, hired the least expensive contractor and planned to renovate his medical facility during the week of vacation he had planned several months in advance.  An unlikely success story from the start.  Needless to say, things did not go well at all and so the many months long saga and disruption to his business began.  Once hired, we renovated his office during the evenings and on weekends and were finally able to deliver the result our client expected.  Unfortunately, this renovation cost him much more money, time and business disruption than he ever expected.  Split Rock was happy to accompany him in court, testify on his behalf and help him achieve the maximum remedy available to him.  Cheaper can often be the most expensive option there is!

Split Rock took a great new office and work space for it's back office activities and custom millshop at 1916 Park Avenue in Manhattan's exciting and evolving neighborhood of Harlem.  With over 2,500 square feet of office space on the 4th floor, Split Rock's creative team can spread out into the open loft space with 14' foot ceilings and vintage floors.  Additionally, Split Rock took another 3,500 square feet of storage and workshop in the basement.  The best part is the adjacent parking lot across the street that accommodates our vehicles as well as our visitors.  Great new places like the Red Rooster, Chez Lucienne, Settepanni and Harlem Brewing Co. make lunch and after work events fun.