Managing a refurbishment project for clients that are based overseas
A Q&A with the owners of an apartment in Thurlestone, where we did a full procurement and refurbishment. Our brief was to transform it from a bland holiday apartment into a unique home from home that was personal to our clients.
They entrusted us with creating a Devon home for them that was their permanent base when they were in the UK and not a home for holiday letting.
We managed building works, applied for planning permission, reconfigured the bedrooms, created a dining space, new kitchen, a new shower room and found artwork they loved.
It was a full procurement service from teaspoons to bedlinen from lighting to bathroom taps, and our clients were based in Singapore for the whole project duration.
How did it work? Find out below.
How did the refurb work with you being based overseas?
We approached the Refurb team at Pebbles to help us renovate our holiday home / UK base in October 2020. As we are based overseas and unable to travel due to the pandemic, all our interactions were virtual, but despite this challenge, we were impressed with Kat from the very first conversation - she was friendly, thorough and professional and put us immediately at ease that our project would be in safe hands.
Did the team help you make decisions on what you wanted?
The team did all we wanted and more in creating a stylish and practical home whilst maximising the space, layout and views. Kat was happy to make recommendations and suggestions about layouts and the design but also listened to our feedback and really understood what we wanted.
What happened if you didn’t like what had been suggested?
We said “yes” to most things proposed but when we were struggling with some of the final art choices, Kat showed immense patience as she continued to source and send us numerous options until we found the ideal pieces that resonated with us.
How did you feel involved even though you weren’t in the UK?
Living in Singapore during the pandemic meant we weren’t able to pop over to check on progress but received regular updates and photos which helped us see the project evolve. The process was inevitably delayed due to some challenges related to the pandemic and Brexit but we felt that we were kept updated and informed at all times.
How well did all the trades work together?
Working directly with a local company meant that everything was seamless and connected. Kat knew the best architects, structural engineers, and builders for our project and worked directly with our neighbours to keep them updated regarding the timing of the more disruptive works as she was on the ground.
Would you recommend the REFURB team?
Kat and her team were an absolute pleasure to work with throughout the project, and I couldn’t recommend them more.
Find out more about the full refurbishment and scope of works
Read it here
