Case Study of Design Improvement in Condo Associations

A restoration in a postmodern condo in Puerto Rico is described. The case study outlines the steps taken to receive collective guidance, and presents plans and photos, before and after. The original jalousie windows in the garden-facing dining room were blown ajar by hurricanes. Without eaves, frequent heavy rainfall had infiltrated and damaged interior furniture and fittings. The window was restored to fixed pane in the approved tripanel frame with hurricane-resistant security glass. In addition to eliminating rain infiltration, the new window reduced termite activity and improved the garden view with a 10-fold cost benefit. Legal issues are covered that distinguish cosmetic from structural renovations. Performance evaluations were done for heat transfer, water infiltration, and market value. A path is outlined to enable design improvements within the constraints of condo associations that blend with existing architectural features, stand up to environmental stress, and offer multifaceted benefits.