Custom Build Home in Ivybridge, Devon

“We instructed Woodford Architecture to assist us in prolonged negotiations with a local developer who had obtained detailed planning consent to convert an office building in the historic centre of Exeter into three floors of appartments with two added penthouses on a new contemporary steel and glass fourth floor. After weeks of discussion we managed to convince the developer to sell us the entire new floor as one large new appartment fitted out entirely to our specification. This entailed some re design of the new structure on a project which was about to start The deal was entirely dependant on Woodford Architecture producing detailed design plans and specifications to very tight deadlines indeed, in the face of a somewhat sceptical contractor. There is no doubt whatsoever that had not Gavin Woodford and his staff worked seven days a week for several weeks we would not have been able to meet our contractual commitments. They are to be congratulated on a remarkable job well done.”

“A friendly and professional practice - a pleasure to work with. Impressive timber frame design knowledge and excellent communication made this project an absolute joy - we hope to work with you again soon. So successful was this partnership that we've been jointly shortlisted for 'Best Oak Frame' at the Build It Awards 2014 - fingers crossed! Photo Credits: van Ellen + Sheryn”

“I own a listed thatched Devon Longhouse which is located in a conservation area where planners are notouriously strict with any planning applications. I decided that I would like a oak framed garden room extension to take advantage of the views and allow more light into the house. as well as a stand alone oak framed garage with integral Linhay and workshop, all of which I wanted to blend in with the surrounding period structures. I had previously applied for a garage which the Planners had turned down. The company I approached to build the oak frame recommended Hugh who at one time was one of their in house architects who they rated highly. I had not been involved in any building projects before so Hugh explained all the various stages and hoops we had to jump through to appease the planning department as well as English Heritage. We had several meetings with planners who appeared to respect Hugh as someone who they could trust to design something in keeping and sypathetic to the character of the original building. As with all bespoke projects we had some small problems but Hugh acted as a intermediary and smoothed these all out with the builder and planning department. The result is something I am extremely pleased with and have recommended Hugh to a number of friends, some whom have said that my extension is the best example they have seen to a period property.”

“Alistair of Co create worked with us to develop plans to build a house. We had explored options and ideas on our own, and were delighted with Alistair’s in put it was exactly what we were looking for. We would happily recommend to others so they can benefit from the solid reliability and professionalism Co create offered us. Great Job. Thank you.”

“We have worked with Woco on a regular basis for the past 4 years, on several projects ranging from bespoke furniture-making to much bigger architectural projects. The guys are a pleasure to collaborate with - extremely sharp, fast, excellent at finding out of the box solutions, and always working with the greatest attention to detail. We really appreciate their design + build ethos, which helps them to bring beautiful fully-fledged creations to life. If we need to commission work, and the Woco team can do it, then we will do our utmost to work with them. ---- Attached a photo of a bespoke basin stand made in 2015 by Woco for one of our project.”

“I used Simon from Lignum design on a new build project in Yealmpton, Devon. He was fantastic from start to finish. His fresh ideas and quirky designs really finished the house to a high spec. Every person who has had a look at my house and congratulated me on the design and layout and this is all down to Simon. Along with being superb at his job, he always responds to emails and phone calls at his earliest convenience and this therefore sped up the building planning and development process. I would highly recommend Lignum designs to any person looking to build a new property.”

“Excellent dialogue between client and architect throughout the project. Always attempting to incorporate client's ideas into the design. Constant follow up throughout the project and excellent dialogue with builders and other craftsmen involved in the project.”

“Mole Architects designed our house Stackyard in Suffolk. Tim was the lead architect on the project. His professionalism, attention to detail and ability to work with us enabled the build to run smoothly. It was a pleasure to work with him.”

“We have used Trotman Taylor; aka Clayton Taylor, on 2 occasions: The first time was for plans to build a 3 bay cart lodge - the plans produced were creative,comprehensive and instrumental in getting planning approval from Dartmoor National Park. Clayton guided us through the whole process. The second time was to integrate a separated upper floor from the main house and link it into the other floors. Again Clayton provided plans that were imaginative, innovative and maximised the use of the space. He also assisted with the application for Building Control to a successful conclusion. In both cases Clayton was thorough with several site visits, he communicated well at all stages of the planning with patience and full explanations of the different options for the build. His business plan was clearly set out. Clayton was able to recommend local builders and tradesmen all of whom said that ‘if you can't build off Claytons plans , you cant build off anything as they are so comprehensive and leave nothing to chance!’ We consider Cayton’s services to be excellent value for money and wouldn't hesitate to use this business again and we would recommend him to anyone.”

“GY Architects made a complicated project a joy to work on. They came up with some fantastic ideas that complimented our own wishes and helped us through the planning and listed building applications. The presentation of our planning and listed buildings application was exemplary and there were no objections from anyone - almost unheard of! They provided the service that we wanted and helped us through the fine details. We would happily recommend them as an architectural practise.”