Malcolm T.
5/5
Our project was a single storey wrap-around extension to enlarge our kitchen and to give us a separate utility room, downstairs toilet and shower, and a front storeroom.
Initially, we were anticipating engaging a separate builder and had approached IDEAS to quote for the design, supply and fitting of the kitchen - they having been recommended to us.
Unlike the other two kitchen designers we approached, Paul did not take the architectural plans at face value, but came out to see the existing kitchen and understand our needs before submitting a design. He and his in-house builder Paul Green literally came up with ideas we hadn't thought about, and made some very useful suggestions for modifications which have ultimately delivered a downstairs living area which is more spacious than we expected, and which has impressed everyone who has seen it. Having then visited two similar projects wholly delivered by IDEAS, and having received glowing recommendations, we engaged them to deliver the whole project.
Paul understood our budget constraints and tailored the design accordingly: there was no sales pressure - just good advice.
We really appreciated being able to call in to the showroom, enjoy a coffee, and discuss and refine the design as the build took shape.
A special mention must go to the team on the ground - chiefly to Paul G and Donny for the bulk of the building and plumbing and their "can do" attitude throughout.
But also to Adam and John for the bricklaying; Danny for the electrical work and Tony for the plastering.
Importantly, the team had a good working relationship with Building Control at every stage of the build.
Thanks too to Helen who came out to give a tutorial on the Neff appliances - particularly since we were converting from gas to electric oven and hob.
The project was not without issues: the very wet autumn and winter did cause several weeks overrun, and inevitably there was a snag list to work through, but nothing has been too much trouble.
It just about came in on budget as well: there was just a slight confusion as to which items of the electrical work were within scope. The remaining additional spend was at our behest to add some additional finishing touches such as tiling.
We've gone from a one-person galley kitchen to a light and airy spacious room which everyone can use and which seamlessly becomes part of the patio when the weather allows.
Given the number of "wows" from those seeing it for the first time, we wouldn't hesitate to recommend IDEAS.
