I recommend the architect Josh Goldstein, who helped us tremendously with the gut renovation of our 1910s-built home in Brooklyn. From the beginning of the process, he pointed us in the right direction.
We had been planning to cram our new kitchen into a windowless corner on the ground floor of our home. He suggested we consider relocating the kitchen to the center of the home, and open it up to the living room and dining room. We would have never thought of this, but he reassured us the structural and plumbing changes could be done, and within budget. This made all the difference in the world. We now have a beautiful, sunny kitchen that opens up to the dining room and living room. Whether we are cooking, eating, playing, or relaxing, the family can enjoy each other's company, while still having plenty of space to breathe.
Josh was also able to comfortably work in three bedrooms and 1 1/2 baths on the ground floor (under 900 square feet!), which was critical because the second floor was to be used as a rental. We are very pleased that he was able to salvage and re-use much of the original detailing in the house, such as doors, molding, stair railing, and radiators, freshening them up and integrating them perfectly with the new. He turned a dreary basement into a vibrant playroom and office. He also helped us immeasurably in the construction process, meeting weekly with the GC and ensuring the design proceeded as we wished. There were many minor, unexpected, issues to deal with during construction, which are very common in an old house. I feel some other architect may have gotten lost in the weeds, but Josh was able to address each problem as it arose, while still keeping his sights set on the big picture.
We are ineffably happy with our home. Josh listened to and respected all of our ideas, while offering his own when he saw an opportunity to improve upon the design. He was extremely knowledgeable and patient, and we could not be more pleased with the final result. He really helped us make the most of our space, within our budget and tastes. He is also a pleasure to work with.