It seems fitting for the first and last post of the dreaded year that is 2020 to be the project that seemed it would never end.
Whilst I have so many wonderful adjectives to name this couple as, “In for the Long Haul” was the only one that seemed to be the pertinent choice. Some hair raising structural challenges were endured, a screed floor that simply refused to dry and then was colour batched wrong and had to be redone and some intense rain that caused further delays were but a few of the challenges we faced. The ultimate cherry on bloody top was of course a major world pandemic hitting us smack in the face right in the middle of it which certainly sent us to our knees.
Whilst I’m not going to make this post about what a tough year its been, it really has been the not so quiet elephant in the room for 2020 that’s hard to ignore. I don’t think a day goes by without the C word being mentioned! We have all had to face up to our own individual and collective challenges this year and endure hardships, fear, anxiety and immense sadness, whilst also experiencing some humbling take outs and special moments that are not easily forgotten. I for one know that whilst Lockdown was an extreme experience, it brought my family together in a way that I will forever hold dear. Plus I will never underestimate the value of having a well stocked bar ever again!
This project will always remain in my heart as the testament to what we can all endure when faced with our worst nightmare and the inner strength we find to carry on. This family became embedded in my life as we navigated this together and finished the project on what could only be described as the biggest high ever.
What should have been completed in 8 weeks took us 6 months, and whilst I like to think it was worth waiting for, the journey that got us here certainly was.
When the chips are down you look around to see who your crew are and for me that has been the humbling experience of 2020. We strive to create beautiful spaces, but its the incredible people that surround us who truly build them.
The Brief:
Project manage the design and complete overhaul of the bottom floor of a residential home renovation.
BEFORE:
The Transformation:
- design, manufacture and install of a new kitchen and scullery
- redesign and renovate both bathrooms with new tiles, fixtures and fittings.
- structural removal of 3 walls and rebuild of 1 to include a new fireplace feature wall
- fireplace wall joinery
- structural underpinning of the foundations
- new screed flooring and skirting
- new aluminium windows and doors
- updating electricals and replacing all existing light fittings with new
- paintwork throughout
- new lighting features
Biggest Challenge:
As with all projects there were challenges, delays and frustrations but the hardest challenge to navigate on this project was being hit by an unforeseen apocalypse in the midst of it all!
Best feature:
I know I’m supposed to say the fireplace but for me its how this space makes me feel. Its an open, light and happy home and you can feel the energy from when you enter.
AFTER:
