Homerton #143

Through our neighbours who had started a similar project. We had been thinking about it for a long time but didn't really know where to start with finding an architect. We had fears that either our budget wouldn't be big enough to be of interest or we'd just find someone who wanted to create something to put in their portfolio rather than for us. So when we learned our neighbours had spoken to a good number of architects and were really enthusiastic about ARCHEA we didn't hesitate to get in touch.

Not a lot. We had some exposure when had a loft conversion a few years ago but it was managed by a loft conversion company and we never actually spoke to the person who did the designs. We just looked at some of the layouts from their previous work and made the decisions with their project manager. We knew with the kitchen we wanted more support as the finish and getting it right was more important to us and we were aware it would be a much more complex project with more and higher value decisions to make.

Personable - they were lovely people to work with.

Patient and supportive - we really appreciate that we were always given considered feedback to our many questions. Easing the burden of decision-making was of real value to us in terms of relieving pressure on our already busy lives. We really appreciated the clear recommendations that ARCHEA made throughout the project. Whenever we questioned or wanted to explore another avenue they always took the time to explore that option with us even though in most cases we came to the conclusion that ARCHEA's initial recommendation was the best option. 

Detailed - the end result of the point above coupled with the level and attention to detail provided was that we developed absolute trust in ARCHEA and their decision making which took a huge weight off of our minds.

Practical and economical - We really liked ARCHEA's approach to working with what is already there and choosing products that are simple, elegant and good value. The rooflights are probably the best case in point here which we thought were incredible value for the amount of glass, especially when we know many friends who have spent many thousands more to a similar effect.

Efficient - the fixtures and fittings document where everything that we needed for project was listed out, and a recommendation for each item, is brilliant. It turned what could be a daunting number of decisions to make into something we enjoyed working through together. ARCHEA's recommendations saved us hours of research as we only needed to explore options for the things we cared about most.

Very happy. We felt reassured that ARCHEA were overseeing key parts of the process such as measuring and ordering the windows. We appreciated that they were able to adapt the kitchen designs as once stripped-out and insulated, the kitchen measurements were a little different to those in the plans. We also appreciated that they were able to handle the questions that came up around some of the trickier spaces such as the pantry cupboard and laundry cupboard and work with the builders to find a solution - this took potential stress away from us.

We were very happy with EFBC (the builder). The final snagging bits have been slightly protracted but they were very flexible with us as some of the parts took a long time to be delivered. The quality of their work is high and they are good people to work with.

We're very happy. We know we ummed and ahhed at length at several points during the process but we think we made the right decisions throughout. The guidance and advice we were given along the way was key to enabling us to make good decisions.

The project has totally transformed the way we use the ground floor of our house.

The best comparison is with our loft conversion which we did without an architect. We made the decisions on layout, glazing etc by ourselves. Whilst I don't think we made any bad decisions I can see now where we would have made better decisions with ARCHEA's input.

The glazing options and materials suggested, we probably wouldn't have discovered on our own and I think we would have either ended up with something inferior or much more expensive.

The skylights in particular, everyone we know has spent at least 4x as much for a similar effect.

And the spreadsheet of fixtures and fittings was amazing. When we did the loft, it was stressful at times because we didn't know when the decisions were coming. Having visibility of all the decisions we needed to make for this project, and a solid recommendation for each one, was both exciting and a relief.

Finally, their documentation and the way they share it worked really well for us.

ARCHEA really delivered on what they promised in our first meeting where they outlined their process, so I don't think I have too much to add here.

When we first got the fixtures and fittings list, I thought there must be a more efficient way of sharing questions and feedback than sending emails back and forth. I imagined a collaborative Google Doc where we could add comments in line and resolve them when complete would be easier and more efficient.

In practice it worked fine over email and introducing a tool that your clients are not familiar with would likely lead to more trouble than it's worth.

So, in summary, great process, well executed, no obvious areas for improvement. 👍

With an architect like ARCHEA, you will make better decisions, save money with great materials and suppliers you wouldn't otherwise discover, and have a partner to take the stress away and guide you through the process.