Update May/June 2006: A delightful architect/engineer is now in charge of the renovations, and work has begun. During my May visit, I decided to eliminate the back structure. I was unhappy with the layout, foundations were in questionable condition, and the cost of even basic finishing would have been substantial. For less expense, I can have a nice big garden to enjoy year-round, and maybe even a pool. The new plan also allows us to focus on the main house, with fewer modifications.
Structurally speaking, the house will remain much as it is. The kitchen will be enlarged and the doors widened a bit, but the living area will have less of an open layout than I'd envisioned (see notes for interior). The construction is such that partition walls can be removed only to the level of the door lintels, and new columns would be needed for adequate support. I would gain very little space or circulation, and the result would be more "broken" than open. My money is better spent outdoors.
We divided the project into stages, grouping work that must be done at the same time. This enables me to pay in installments and allows for them to stop at logical points while I'm saving for the next phase. They work faster than my cash flow does!
Back in Cairo, my next mission was the plan for the electrical system, a complete new installation that must be done with the roof and walls. Determining the placement of each electrical device, outlet, and switch is a challenge not to be missed.
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Before
Demolition begins!
Before
In progress
Before
In progress