Simple interactions can last a lifetime?

A blast from the past: I recently met up with a previous client to find out what life has been like living in the extension we got through planning all those years ago.

A simple single storey extension can add so much to a home's character.

This customer lives in a 1960s property in Cookham, Maidenhead, and they had a simple single-storey rear extension on their home, but what a difference this additional space has made.

This was the first time they had ever taken on any kind of building project, and the client explained how important it was to have an architect as part of that process. They felt at the time the property needed to be modernised and wanted to find the best way to do that but were limited at the time by budget.

Of course, budget is always a consideration, you would rarely have a client without any budget on a project. Even those with limitless funds still tend to have a budget in mind.

This customer had spent time looking at other friends and neighbours building projects and although they liked what they had achieved, they felt that what JGJS produced in the plans made far more of the space available and delivered it within an acceptable price. They did say that in hindsight, they might have “pushed the boat out a bit more,” but I think when it’s a first project, it's not unusual to be more careful about the financial estimate and try and keep within your original expenditure goals. 

We do wish we pushed the boat out a bit more. Maybe next time?

Bi-fold doors continue to be a popular alternative to french or patio doors

I asked what they felt they got by using an architect on this project, rather than going to a design and build construction company.  The customer explained that although they had an idea of what they wanted to achieve, they couldn’t see how it could work practically. They explained that I had been able to do that for them, giving them a range of design options and making changes to the plan as their understanding improved, and that meant they could then take these plans to local reputable builders.

This was a wonderful example of how using an architect on an initial project can help build confidence and bring an idea to life. The extension is now an integral part of the house, almost as if it had always been there, and you can see how it complements the original house.

Communication is key (and sometimes surprising!!) when understanding a clients' requirements and aspirations

If you are starting to consider creating new space in your existing home, rather than that next move, get in touch and let's have an initial call.