Kitchen Extension

• See photos of work

Customer reference for Simon Hoe RIBA as told to pickapro by Helen and Pat from Glenageary on 25-Nov-2005

When was the work done?
Between Feb and July 2004.

How did you choose Simon Hoe?
I contacted a few architects from the Golden Pages. Simon was very efficient. He called up immediately.

Had you definite ideas in mind before you talked to Simon?
Heat and light! We had a very old kitchen which was long and narrow. It had no heat and no light and no view of the garden.

Did Simon Hoe introduce new ideas?
Yes, he came back to us with six alternative designs - covering a range of costs. Really, he could have read my mind -it was exactly what I wanted - even down to the split level kitchen.

What was the project process - day to day?
Day to day, everything went through Simon. He kept a very tight rein on the project and costs. The schedule for building the extension was 9 weeks, which I actually thought was very optimistic. But it actually finished more or less within the 9 weeks.

What was the biggest benefit to you of using Simon Hoe?
Lack of worry because he ran the project. He kept a very strict idea on the budget and the builder. He was contactable. He was honest - there were no problems.

What's your favourite part now?
The underfloor heating. There's no radiators and we never feel a draft. The floor feels warm even though it's terracotta tiled floor. And it didn't cost a lot more than radiators. The extension is very bright. Everyone thinks it's magnificent.

Would you recommend Simon Hoe to others?
Yes, an unqualified yes. And he's no relation of mine! He's easy going but he kept a very good handle on costs. He had creative ideas but worked within the budget.

Any tips for other people?
Not really - make sure you have a well established builder.