Columbus Idea Book November 2022

OPTIONS FOR UPGRADING
Should you be considering purchasing a condo that you feel needs to be remodeled,
realize that expansive renovations could be challenging. As soon as there
are more than three condos connected to each other, the entire overall structure
becomes a commercial building in light of local building codes. Renovating
a condo building is therefore subject to a commercial building permit rather
than a much simpler residential permit.
Permeating the demising walls, (the partition walls that separate one tenant’s
space from another tenant’s space or from the building’s common areas)
ceilings, and floors must be carefully regulated because the safety and integrity
of the sum of all condos together in the one structure needs to be preserved.
Moving walls, updating the HVAC, rearranging plumbing fixtures, and even
updating the electrical systems are examples of renovations that all require a
building permit.
Plus, permits aside, there are physical limitations when it comes to remodeling.
For example, should you want to reconfigure a bathroom, Walley says,
moving a toilet might not really be possible if the floors are made of concrete.
Also, all renovations need to be handled within the parameters set by the building’s
board—timing, elevator access, noise regulations and more will need to
be addressed. ➻
Light walls and soft lighting allow the
focus to be on the artwork and city
view in this Columbus Arena District
condo. Interior design: City Park
Interiors. Photo by Dale Clark
housetrends idea book 2022 49