--- title: "Rusk Renovations — General Contractors | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/rusk-renovations-pfvwus-pf~1350578095 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1350578095.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Rusk Renovations" category: ["General Contractors"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/19f3f1f80f7334b8_4747-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "39 West 37th Street, 15th Floor, New York, New York 10018, United States" latitude: 40.7547 longitude: -73.9925 phone: "(212) 544-0986" website: http://www.ruskrenovations.com rating: 5 review_count: 19 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 615 last_updated: 2026-08-25 --- # Rusk Renovations Original Houzz profile: [Rusk Renovations](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/rusk-renovations-pfvwus-pf~1350578095) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** General Contractors - **Location:** New York, NY - **Serves:** Manhattan - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (19 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2014–2024), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves We’re told that Rusk projects come to life. With over 30-years’ experience renovating dwellings in Manhattan’s landmark buildings, both historic and contemporary, Rusk is the general contractor preferred by clients who place a premium on time, sophistication, and clarity. Rusk gets it right the first time, and it’s no wonder. The firm’s project carpenters and supervisors are craftspeople who understand the aesthetic intent of each project. The interdisciplinary project management team bring added perspectives from engineering, architecture and construction management to the plans before the first swing of a hammer. Finesse and relentless focus on detail are the hallmarks of a Rusk project. Ongoing education is another. Little wonder that Rusk’s clients are the ones smiling at the end of their project and for many years afterwards. ### Services Provided - Home Remodeling - General Contracting ### Areas Served - Manhattan ### Typical Job Cost $600,000 - 10,000,000 Typical budgets from $400 to $1500 per sq. foot with many projects between $700 to $1500 per sq. foot. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Rusk Renovations | | Address | 39 West 37th Street, 15th Floor, New York, New York 10018, United States | | Phone | (212) 544-0986 | | Website | http://www.ruskrenovations.com | | Followers on Houzz | 615 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/Rusk-Renovations-Inc-107942256979/ - X (Twitter) — https://twitter.com/ruskrenovation1 ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Rusk Renovations](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/rusk-renovations-pfvwus-pf~1350578095) - **Website:** http://www.ruskrenovations.com - **Phone:** (212) 544-0986 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - International Property Awards 2019 - Chrysalis Award 2019 - Remodeling Magazine 2019 - Qualified Remodeler Top 500 - Remodeling 550 August 2017 - Master Design Awards 2018, 2017 - Lucy G. Moses Award from the New York Landmarks Conservancy - Crain's 2013 & 2017 - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2014–2024), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [Institute of Classical Architecture & Art](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/institute-of-classical-architecture-and-art-pfvwus-pf~597638842) - [Painting & Decorating Contractors of America](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/painting-and-decorating-contractors-of-america-pfvwus-pf~1134749802) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 19 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Susan Shafton, Dec. 2019** > I worked with Rusk Renovations to renovate my 2/bed 2bath condo unit. > I was delighted with the work that was done. The apartment features incredible details, with custom lighting and interior design, along with dark hardwood floors, custom cabinetry, and pocket doors throughout. > John worked seamlessly with outside resources, the building personnel, and always resolved any issues that arose. In addition, he was transparent in providing cost information. **★★★★★ — Elskop Scholz, Oct. 2017** > Elskop Scholz' work is always technically demanding. Our clients expect flawless process and execution and our reputation depends on it. Since the early days of their company, Rusk Renovations have delivered a seamless construction experience for a successful architecture project. Their formula involves outstanding communication with client and architect, speedy service, creative solutions to the unexpected challenges that arise in renovations, all while staying true to the architect's vision and their client's needs. **Comment from Rusk Renovations:** > Dear Chris and Ines, > Thanks so much for this lovely review. We feel the same about you. Your devotion to your artistic vision as well as the client's needs and program are strongly felt by us. We appreciate the level of detail you'll dive into on a project, and your insistence that the two of you personally take part in every decision is testament to your dedication. **★★★★★ — Kathy Bloomgarden, Nov. 2016** > Rusk was an incredible partner in our construction project, which consisted of 5 floors and about 30,000 square feet converting a warehouse space to an open modern office environment. The whole team was extraordinary. Their work was top quality but equally important they led us through the process with expertise, knowledge, contacts, and thoughtfulness We could not have done this renovation without them. They will certainly be our partners in any additional work we do. Top management was with us the whole time and that meant alot. I would recommend them to anyone seeking a best in class contractor. **★★★★★ — Scott Sanders LLC, Nov. 2016** > As an interior designer I would highly recommend Rusk Renovations. Their professionalism and quality is exactly what you would seek for when working on high residential projects. They are incredibly responsive and aim to please and their attention to detail is fantastic! **★★★★★ — Lynn Fritzlen Architect, Nov. 2016** > I worked with Rusk on the design and construction of the adaptive re-use of a century old warehouse on the east side of Manhattan. As the architect I was so pleased with the level of ingenuity and creativity they brought to the project. It was truly a team effort and the client was so happy with the results. > Looking forward to working with them again. **★★★★★ — George Ranalli Architect, Sept. 2016** > Rusk Renovations is an excellent company dedicated to the very best of craftsmanship and client care. They work hard to make sure they interface with the client, architect and sub contractors to guarantee a high end delivery. John personally works on each project and his mastery of construction, details and the complexities of the process are very evident. This is an excellent company run by Mary and John that delivers everything you need to have a satisfied owner and a project to be proud of. **★★★★★ — jbank53, May 2016** > Rusk Renovations served as the GC on our 7400 sq ft renovation on our home on the UES in Manhattan. After working with several high-end GCs over the years, Rusk sets the gold standard. Smart, responsive, and totally professional--the Rusk team are truly craftsmen. It starts with John Rusk, but the project manager and the site super were equally fantastic and we had very few bumps in the road (and for a project this size, that's very rare, particularly for an older building). The ultimate product is fantastic and the continuing support and service has been strong. I do feel that the original estimate on timing of completion was somewhat unrealistic, but as anyone who has done a renovation in New York City knows, it always takes more time than one expects. > > A few other details: > 1\. The apartment was very clean throughout demolition and the renovation. > 2\. The subs Rusk used were very good. > 3\. They always worked with me to keep costs low. > 4\. Great at problem solving. > 5\. Rarely missed weekly walk-throughs. > 6\. Kept me abreast of all problems as they arose. **Comment from Rusk Renovations:** > Thanks so much. As a client, you set the standard. You coached and cajoled. You set clear goals and expectations and you were unfailingly appreciative. It was a great team with John Murray's architecture and Katie Ridder's design and you and your wife made it so. Thank you. It was an honor. **★★★★★ — Dream Business Coaching, April 2016** > As a consultant I worked with hundreds of construction companies over the years. Without a doubt Rusk Renovation is one of the best. Their professionalism sets a new standard for the industry. There is nobody better at condos in Manhattan They work well with architects and clients and create an amazing team so the client always gets exactly what they want on time and on budget, I highly recommend Rusk Renovations. **★★★★★ — User, Feb. 2016** > We enjoyed each collaboration with Rusk Rennovation on our projects. The attention to detail and willingness to work with everyone to achieve the projects goals are outstanding. It's when Contractors and Architects work together well a project excels. We highly recommend Rusk Renovations. **★★★★★ — Ilene Wetson Art & Design, Inc, Dec. 2015** > This is the second project I've worked on as an Interior Designer with Rusk Renovations within the last 5 years. John Rusk is a very knowledgeable, smart, personable, experienced general contractor. He runs a first class company with smart, ambitious project managers, supers and tradesmen. The sub-contractors who did all the woodworking, plaster work, electric, etc on this job supplied 1st class product. We had a very short work window and Rusk met the deadlines. Plus all the people he employs are available, good communicators, neat, clean, respectful as well as being very hardworking professionals. **Comment from Rusk Renovations:** > Thanks so much Ilene. It is always such a pleasure to work with you. Your attention to detail, your terrific style and your client advocacy are the best. **★★★★★ — ssm2, June 2015** > We did a gut renovation of an apartment in a pre-war New York building, and Rusk Renovations was our general contractor. They did an outstanding job! We had very sophisticated and exacting architects, and Rusk executed their design, with its many challenging details, superbly. The Rusk team met with us regularly to anticipate and resolves issues quickly and ensure good communications. They worked well with everyone, fostered cooperation across the project, and delivered a very high quality product on budget. We were very pleased with our experience. **★★★★★ — Pamela Murphy, Aug. 2014** > Rusk is the kind of service provider that makes one want to find a project for them to work on. Ours was on the smaller side of what they do--gut renovations of a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a powder room in a 2000 sq ft midtown penthouse--but from our initial meeting with John through to the very end, we have been treated like a special client. They worked extremely well with our building, our local project designer and cabinet maker as well as our long-time out of state designer and a second, non-local cabinetmaker. The quality of work was exemplary and dealing with all their workers a pleasure, even through the occasional small bump in the road. They also carried out small projects in the rest of the apartment that were not part of the major renovation but really added everyday convenience. What made me want to write this review, however, is that more than 2 years after the main renovation, Rusk was available for follow-up, not only with a few small fixes, whether or not they were related to earlier work, but also to support the installation of a closet by our cabinetmaker. Even the best professionals move on, but Rusk stands out as a company that gives a totally satisfactory experience and product and then goes a step beyond. ## Selected projects - [Meet The Team](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/meet-the-team-pj-vj~2137163) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - [West Village Townhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-village-townhouse-pj-vj~1621398) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 27 - [Framing the Collection](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/framing-the-collection-pj-vj~1654722) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 14 - [A Parisian Apartment on The Upper East Side](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-parisian-apartment-on-the-upper-east-side-pj-vj~530878) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 28 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Barbara Lane: Interior Designer Ascher Davis: Architect Phillip Ennis: Photographer - [Warm Contemporary in a Prewar Space on The Upper West Side](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/warm-contemporary-in-a-prewar-space-on-the-upper-west-side-pj-vj~533555) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 14 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Felicitas Oefelien: Interior Designer Matthew Baird: Architect Elizabeth Felicella: Photographer - [Central Park West Tower](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/central-park-west-tower-pj-vj~608778) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 27 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Ilene Wetson: Interior Designer Matthew Baird: Architect Elizabeth Felicella: Photographer - [Upper West Side Condo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/upper-west-side-condo-pj-vj~1638716) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 30 - [Plaza Hotel Art Filled Fantasy](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/plaza-hotel-art-filled-fantasy-pj-vj~143193) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 12 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Jeffrey Hitchcock: Interior Designer Ann Macklin: Architect Scott Francis: Photographer - [Traditional Loft in Chelsea](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/traditional-loft-in-chelsea-pj-vj~143154) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 16 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Scott Sanders: Interior Designer Michael Smith: Architect Laura Moss: Photographer - [Tribeca Loft](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tribeca-loft-pj-vj~1158263) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 13 - Description: Contractor: Rusk Renovations Inc. Designer: Kimberly Heston Photographer: Elizabeth Felicella Architect: Matthew Baird Architects - [Upper East Side Apartment for a Hip Young Couple](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/upper-east-side-apartment-for-a-hip-young-couple-pj-vj~143159) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 19 - Description: Contractor: Rusk Renovations Designer: Sarah Magness Architect: Ann Macklin - [Central Park West Apartment](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/central-park-west-apartment-pj-vj~143148) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 6 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor John B. Murray: Architect Laura Moss: Photographer - [Riverside Drive Super Groovy Masterpiece](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/riverside-drive-super-groovy-masterpiece-pj-vj~143174) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 22 - Description: Benjamin Noriega Ortiz Interior Designer, Brian Boyle Architect, Rusk Renovations Inc. Contractor Photography by Antoine Bootz - [A Historical Fantasy at The Plaza](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-historical-fantasy-at-the-plaza-pj-vj~538210) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 9 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Kerry Joyce: Interior Designer Ann Macklin: Architect Michel Arnaud: Photographer - [Comfortable Historic Interior at The Plaza](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/comfortable-historic-interior-at-the-plaza-pj-vj~143205) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 17 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Kerry Joyce: Interior Designer Ann Macklin: Architect MIchel Arnaud: Photographer - [Upper West Side Classic 6](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/upper-west-side-classic-6-pj-vj~143187) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 12 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Llewellyn Sinkler Inc.: Interior Designer Cynthia Wright: Architect Laura Moss: Photographer - [A West Village Loft Reimagined](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-west-village-loft-reimagined-pj-vj~538215) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - Description: Rusk Renovations Inc.: Contractor Charles Taylor: Interior Designer Ann Macklin: Architect Frank Ritter: Photographer - [A Historic House in Riverdale](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-historic-house-in-riverdale-pj-vj~538192) - Location: Bronx, NY - Photos: 32 - Description: General Contractor: Rusk Renovations Designer: Kim Hall Architect: Ethelind Coblin - [A Compact Fifth Avenue Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-compact-fifth-avenue-home-pj-vj~1158497) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 23 - Description: Designer: Sarah Magness Architect: Ann Macklin Photographer: Asle Sarah - [Refreshing Haven](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/refreshing-haven-pj-vj~1163194) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 13 - Description: Architecture: Haute Architecture DPC Design: Suzanne Rheinstein Photography: Fisher Photography [See all 30 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/rusk-renovations-pfvwus-pf~1350578095) ## Ideabooks - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/151695443/list/wish-list) — 1 idea [See all 1 ideabook](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/ruskrenovations) ## Community Q&A **Q: Where is the dark framed living room chair from?** *(in Photo Questions)* The piece with the X-pattern beneath the arms. I absolutely love these and would like to purchase for my MD. renovation project. Thank you! A: All the furniture was from the designer Benjamin Noriega Ortiz. I think most of it was custom. it's a beautiful chair! **Q: Where did you get those chairs? Who makes them?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: They were custom painted chairs by the designer, Benjamin Noriega Ortiz **Q: wall tile material** *(in Photo Questions)* Where can I get these wall tiles? A: They are hand painted, one of a kind. **Q: Can you tell me the shower tile manufacturer and color? Thanks!** *(in Photo Questions)* Fantastic bathroom!! So serene and lovely! A: Thank you very much, we are happy to hear you like it. **Q: where to purchase bed** *(in Photo Questions)* A: I believe the client found it in India and we painted it for her. It was an antique as I recall. **Q: what is the price?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi, the bed is an antique the client found in India, I don't know how much they paid for it. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-25.*