How a dream kitchen became a reality in a matter of weeks
For Carol-Ann Harvey it was a question of when not if.
‘I had a pretty clear idea in my mind of what I wanted for my home…I love my house but I didn’t love its cramped kitchen—always fighting for somewhere to put things—I simply wanted to extend and give myself the kind of space I’d long dreamed of.’
Her neighbour had done something similar with a conservatory but what really inspired Mrs Harvey was a visit to SEHBAC’s showroom in Ipswich.
‘Instead of just showing you samples of roofing or windows, they’ve built complete, furnished rooms. So you can see what it might be like in reality as well as assess the quality of their work.’
The showroom sets were almost too good and there was a moment where the dream kitchen might have been replaced by a sitting room in the form of an orangery, but the original plan prevailed.
’I love my house but I didn’t love its cramped kitchen—always fighting for space.’
This was the first large scale building project Mrs Harvey had commissioned and she was understandably nervous about finding the right firm.
‘I did speak to a builder who said he could fit one more extension in before he retired…that set the alarm bells ringing.’
While she obtained quotes from other suppliers there was more confidence in SEHBAC’s capacity to deliver on the basis that is a large, established company peopled by helpful, well organised and professional teams.
‘I think the showroom was a big advantage for me… it’s also a sign that you’re dealing with a professional company,’ Mrs Harvey believes.
The proof of the pudding
A well managed project makes everyone’s lives happier
From the start, communications were good. SEHBAC is unusual in that it fields a project manager who owns the project completely and is the main point of contact ensuring that everything runs efficiently on site.
The way they took care of everything meant I didn’t have any stress, which was brilliant for me,’
says Mrs Harvey who was impressed by how smooth the project progressed.
‘People came when they said and did what they promised. All the trades people were brilliant. They
just were nice, friendly people who got on with it.’
SEHBAC has streamlined its business to focus entirely on its customers, reducing waste and cutting out delays that might otherwise disrupt building projects. As a result projects like this one can be be completed in as little as a month on site.
The result is less disruptive for customers, which was a real benefit to Mrs Harvey who could see the value clearly.
‘I’d definitely say I think it’s best to go with a reputable company. You might pay a bit more for it but it’s well worth it.’
The quality of the result, and the speed, efficiency and smoothness of the whole project made it possible to fully enjoy the transformation to her home.
‘You can look at money in the bank, but it’s so much better to see something like this. It’s such a lovely room, I just can’t believe how fantastic it is, really.’
As featured in County Life Herefordshire and Suffolk Norfolk Life
