Testimonials

“We knew Alex had worked on listed buildings before and his experience proved invaluable from, the outset. We had underestimated the detail of the planning required to modernise a Grade II listed property and we had to adapt many of our ideas along the way to conform to regulations. One of Alex’s biggest successes with the build was helping us find those necessary compromises without leaving us feeling disappointed. From the outset we had a very clear idea of what we wanted which meant that Alex had to be extremely tactful and clever in implementing any changes. Looking back, we certainly feel that we ended up with a better result because of the changes that had to be made along the way.

Examples of these adaptations ranged from minor details such as altering the mix of cement used for pointing to fairly major ones like not having a bath in the bathroom. Being such a small property the use of space was paramount and Alex had a fantastic eye for making the best use of it, adding a wardrobe where there was dead space above the stairs and a thin kitchen worktop we were unsure about but later couldn’t have done without.

Beyond his ability to see things clearly and implement them tactfully, Alex was always punctual and methodical in planning the schedule of works. Obviously a top to bottom refurbishment meant that the work would be varied and involve several trades and Alex coordinated the entire project exceptionally well. His main achievement with this was not just, as one would assume, organising all the other trades to arrive at the required times and do their jobs properly etc but also in managing our expectations of how quickly things would happen. We were, inevitably, impatient for work to progress as quickly as possible but by careful explanation of the order of events and good honest communication when things didn’t go perfectly to plan, Alex managed to keep our frustration at bay.

What you learn with undertaking a project, as a novice, is that things never go perfectly to plan and it is how you deal with the problems that arise that count. One of Alex’s strengths is that he never gets flustered and is quick to find practical solutions in stressful situations, whether that be managing people or manual tasks.

The cottage was a big step for us and, to a certain extent, a gamble. Alex helped us achieve everything we wanted from it, and more. We learnt a lot and ended up with a house we really loved which not only represented fantastic value for money but was finished to an exceptionally high bespoke standard. Not everyone can say the same thing on finishing a project like that and it should be added that the proof was in the pudding when we unexpectedly decided to sell St Giles’ and it was snapped up within a week of putting it on the market for the full asking price.

Sally and I would not hesitate in recommending Alex to anyone, whatever the project. He has a natural talent for building, a meticulous and intelligent work ethic, and a rare rapport with people.”

“From the start Alex had some excellent creative ideas to maximise the inside space these included changing the layout and direction of the stairs, knocking down interior walls and replacing a small window with double French doors revealing much more light and another focal point.

Alex is an incredibly professional and skilled builder. Every detail is considered and the job is finished off to a very high spec. We were delighted that the whole job was completed on time and in budget, which considering the beautiful end result is excellent.”