Alchemy Architects Ltd

Alchemy Architects Ltd was appointed initially to advise on whether an existing 1950’s bungalow in Northwood, Isle of Wight that we had purchased could be converted into an energy efficient 2 storey house with only minimal re-modelling. The assessment report which considered an indicative costing and design review concluded that there was little merit in attempting to convert the existing building and that a more suitable building design would be achieved by a complete re-build. The architect was then appointed to design a replacement 4 bedroom family house. The architect undertook an engaging and enlightening sketch design process, where we explored a number of options for the form of the building and the mode of construction. High thermal efficiency and use of passive solar gains had to be reconciled with challenging planning and budget constraints, both of which were managed from the outset effectively by Alchemy. Following a period of consulting us with further highly informative sketches, drawings, physical models and 3D images, we felt that all of our needs had been addressed and that we could proceed confidently. Complex planning constraints were managed by the architect through careful consultation with the planning authority and pre-application meetings were completed smoothly. The planners were persuaded that the development was suitable despite some unfounded local objections and both planning permission and building control approval was gained with relative ease. We had also opted to seek NHBC approval to increase our insurance liability cover, and there was very little additional adjustment to the scheme that was required to achieve their requirements. At all stages of our engagement of Alchemy Architects we have felt assured by the professional approach, technical expertise, broad thinking and complete understanding of our needs. This included the availability of the architect to assist and resolve the relatively few and minor issues that evolved during the build process. The result of this exemplary service has been to complete the construction of a modern, energy efficient, sustainably designed and contemporary home in less than 7 months from the demolition of the original bungalow. We were particularly impressed with the architects’ bold and considered design ideas which we felt we could not obtain from other local architect organisations, and would happily recommend Alchemy for others looking for similar services.

Alchemy Architects Ltd were engaged to design a high quality refurbishment of a Victorian country house in Totland Isle of Wight, originally built by Alfred Lord Tennyson’s niece. The building had fallen into a dilapidated state and was on its way to becoming derelict when refurbishment was started. The original building consisted of two stories, attic and partial basement totalling 600m2. Alchemy undertook the complex measured survey work to provide a record of the existing structure before working closely with us on a detailed brief. A sketch design process then followed which explored and discarded a number of design approaches using site meetings, mood images, drawings and 3D models. The final design solution stripped the building back to its original form and then added back a new wing of accommodation. This gave the building symmetry along its main elevation and open up the main living spaces to the south, accessing a grand sun terrace. Close consultation with the IWCC ensured that planning permission was quickly gained without compromise to the design. Building control approval quickly followed allowing a tender exercise with local builders to be undertaken. We are extremely pleased with the final result of the build and design. We found Alchemy attentive and easy to work with. The effort to thoroughly explore different design options at the early stages of the project gave us confidence that we had selected the right solution for the building. We would certainly recommend them for similar work on the Island.

Alchemy Architects Ltd were engaged to design us a new build 3 bedroom family house in the, Isle of Wight . The architect put allot of time and thought into the sketch design process, and we explored a interesting options for the form of the building and the mode of construction. High thermal efficiency and use of passive solar gains had to be reconciled with difficult planning and budget constraints. After feeling that we had been guided through the process with drawings, models and 3D images, the resultant final design seemed perfect for our needs and we felt that we could proceed with full confidence. The architect carried out early consultation with the planners to gain support for the design and planning permission was granted, seemingly without difficulty. Local authority building control approved the detailed design drawings. We found working with Alchemy easy and stress free throughout the build process. The built design is a great looking, warm, cheap to run, light and airy family home that we enjoy living in.