New York Design Studios Architects & Planners P C

WH Design Studios was contracted to provide architectural/engineering for a dormer in February 2009. The firm [WH Design Studios] Asked for more than 80% of the payment up front. It is now October 2009 and we have yet to receive the finalized documents (actually, at this point, we want a refund). Two distinct periods during the contract, the firm never responded to any of my communications. The first lack of responses was forgiven (after all, I’m a patient person). The second lack of response, from the period of August 24 to September 29, was not tolerated. The firm did not respond to any of my numerous inquiries as of the status of the finalized documents (several emails, phone calls and 1 certified/return receipt letter by dinosaur mail went unanswered). Upon threat that matter will need to be taken up by small claims court, the firm responded in 13 minutes. In the response email from the firm, amongst other excuses, claims they [WH Design Studio] have picked up more clients.

The total disregard to the client is indicative of the level of integrity the firm posses, which is NONE. It's obvious; they picked up new clients and pushed off existing client, especially since they paid more than 80% of the total cost. We are now filing for a small claims proceeding and are now forced to secure another architect. All I can say, if you are to use this firm, ensure a time frame is written in the contact upon approval of preliminary documents. Otherwise, it may be years until you receive the finalized documents. Especially if the Village of Patchogue contracts the firm to do more work.