COMPLAINT: Rebecca Sargent, Seattle

I hired Emily Buchwalter of Medici Architects to design an addition to my 1950 rambler, but I had a tight budget and I was firm in exactly how much I was willing to pay. She repeatedly guaranteed me she would not go over my budget.

When I had multiple contractors come through and make bids, her design turned out to be $50,000 over budget. I have called her repeatedly (nine times) only to have no one pick up the phone or the message machine to go on.

DESIRED RESOLUTION: I would like a refund of $2,500, which is about half of what I paid Ms. Buchwalter, or I would like her to redesign her plans to be within my agreed budget.

RESPONSE: Emily Buchwalter, principal, Medici Architects

I offered to reduce the square footage of her drawings. She did not respond to that offer. I do not feel that I have to rescue your member. That would not be good publicity.

STATUS: Stalemate

Editor's note: In the July issue, we misidentified Robert Bonner's position with RGBJR Design. He is the owner of the firm.