Lifestyle
Before the start of your project you have been planning just how you want it to be, the feel of it, the style, how your family or your company will use it day to day. You may have been getting inspiration from the web, magazines or TV. If you know what you want, my experience and creativity can help you achieve your vision efficiently and cost effectively. If you are not quite sure, I can show you how to overcome problems of space, style, technology and budget. On time and on budget My approach to architecture draws on tried and tested professional planning techniques that minimise wastage and delays. This helps to ensure that projects are delivered on time and on budget. Comfort, elegance, a bit of fun and no nasty surprises on the bill. Kitchens – From rustic to high tech, I’ve done them all, I love them all and my clients love them. I consider the small things of daily life – somewhere to put your laptop or hang the dog leads; I will find you marvellous things that pull out and push in and deal with the increasing demands of recycling. I have kitchens for all budgets up my sleeve. I love the challenge of designing lighting, it perfectly combines technology, (I’m quite technical for a fluffy interior designer) – creativity and budget management. It’s the final touch that can make or break a room. I like to come up a good wheeze that simply transforms a space. Bathrooms – are you a soaker? A splasher? A ditherer? A dasher? It can all be made possible, will look beautiful and it should not leak, mildew or dribble. And the floor can be warm under your tender morning toes. I guide you safely through the intoxications and pitfalls of colour and the technicalities of different kinds of paint. Collaboration I have lots of design ideas but the most important part of my job is to listen and be flexible and open to clients' ideas. Working closely with clients and industry experts is enjoyable and there is always more to learn. |
Getting organised
I have a well-established structure for advance planning. When work begins there on site are always many decisions to be made and it pays to have a designer involved who puts clients' interests first, understands the whole project and can exercise skill, tact and persistence to move things forward. On the spot - even if you're far away As your project progresses it really pays to have someone on the spot with the necessary expertise to suggest and implement creative and practical solutions and keep an eagle eye on detail and quality. I have successfully completed many projects with clients who are far away. Some clients prefer me to look after all aspects of the project on their behalf, others like detailed updates in order to remain as 'hands-on' as possible. Either way my aim is to make sure my clients' vision is efficiently realised. I am very keen on local suppliers here in Cornwall and aim to provide world class stuff so no-one feels they have to compromise because we are a long way away. Talented artisans love living in Cornwall and I have spent many years cultivating relationships with them. A successful design reflects your individual way of life and helps you to realise the full potential of your building. An understanding of how a structure is put together ensures that the building's elements can be added in the right sequence, saving time and money. Saving energy Energy saving in homes and businesses is increasingly vital so I keep up to date with the latest developments in green energy and environmental design. Clients find it helpful to have someone to guide them through the complex process of choosing equipment, finding the space to put it and working out the best solutions for their budget. I have also worked extensively in Central Italy with the architect Matteo Fiorucci, (www.arcostudios.it) These projects have been fun and very successful and Matteo and I and would love to do more. 
|