Bavian Design Ltd

We moved into an extremely quirky but loveable mid-Victorian terraced home by the sea, which needed some basic updating and renovating, but more importantly a reimagining of the space as a place for us to enjoy as a semi-retired couple with a desire to provide a sociable, welcoming and pleasurable place for family and friends to stay. We knew its many unusual features would make it very difficult to attempt the project by ourselves. In Sam we found the perfect partner to guide us through all the options for using the space. Working with him has given us a really comprehensive view of what is both possible and practical, with both aesthetic choices and budgetary constraints given equal consideration. Sam's network of contacts underpinned by his own exacting standards for workmanship and value has given us access to the best people to carry out the work. I can't emphasis enough how valuable this is when you are new to an area - we'd never have been able to do this with confidence ourselves. The design process itself has been incredibly thorough with no stone unturned in assessing exactly how the property infrastructure works as well as the most desirable use of space. Sam has great ideas and he also listens. He is knowledgeable and meticulous. His highly collaborative approach ensures that nothing is pushed through unless and until we're all bought in. As a result we have plans that we're excited by, that work, and align with what we can comfortably afford. We can't wait to work with the people Sam has found to put these plans into action. Working with Sam has been a great investment of time and money - it will repay itself many times over - in the quality of the renovation, the avoidance of expensive mistakes and the pleasure and satisfaction we derive from our newly revamped home. Highly recommended.

Bavian Design helped us change our approach to our redesign, switching our conversation to how we would use and live in our space, rather than just what it looked like. In the process Sam saved us money and I have no doubt added value to our house. Our house now looks amazing, we're so happy.

Initial meetings with Sam were good and positive. Sam was very friendly and offered help with not only the drawings but organizing other aspects like getting in touch with structural engineers and helping with the party wall agreement.There was limited contact throughout and very slow progress, however given the above, I was happy to let this go. What I have is a small job after all, and had paid approximately £3500.When earlier this year finally everything was in place and we could start the build, Sam verbally confirmed that the structural engineers were dragging their feet, (he had not been in contact with them at this point and I had to follow up with them directly) and he would get the drawings and measurements for the SIPS panels I was ordering sent to me as soon as possible.And then he disappeared. He did not, and still has not over 8 months later, replied to any correspondence from me or our household.This resulted in me having to call in a family member to do the drawings who lives abroad. This pushed the job back by almost a year. I have had to reapply for planning permission and instead of Sam helping a novice like myself through the process, he dropped me when I needed him most.I know we are merely small fry in comparison to some bigger builds, however I was expecting a similar level of professionalism which unfortunately did not occur.

Having worked with Sam on a number of projects in the past, I can safely say that Sam delivers a professional approach to his projects and has great attention to detail.Sam is able to demonstrate an excellent knowledge of construction and is focused on ensuring that the projects are carried out and completed to a high standard.

Sam and the team were fantastic in helping us to transform the rear of our house into an open kitchen and dining area.We have no previous experience of major renovations so we really appreciated the guidance and reassurance the team gave us. They took the time to really understand how we would to use the space before coming back with design options to suit a range of budgets. It really helped take us from a point of not really knowing what we wanted to having a clear idea of what we could do. After the first round of designs we could discuss ideas for finishes and details before they were brought to life with the renders.Sam and Marina personally managed the project to turn the designs into a reality. Having seen the benefit of the team’s wide network of suppliers and contractors, and what it takes to organise the work to take place efficiently, I’m truly relieved we had Sam on the case.We’ve been living with our kitchen for nearly two years now and it’s consistently been the heart of the home. It’s the space we want to spend time as a family and with guests. We couldn’t be happier.Thank you , Sam and the team!

Bavian did a fantastic job. We were looking for an eco friendly conversion and bavian sides was novel, creative, cheaper than everyone else and better insulated. We don’t even need to hear the room! It’s a beautiful room now. Great job Bavian. Thank you so much.

I have worked with Sam over the years on a number of projects and can only commend him on his professionalism and dedication to his clients, ensuring that their visions are realised and more often than not exceeded.Sam's architectural and design knowledge is only out weighted by his genuine love for his work which shines through each project that he is involved withI look forward to having the opportunity to work again with Sam soon.

Sam was the architect on a large building project that we just carried out. He was brilliantly organized and that helped the job go really well. In addition he has a really good eye for design so he helped make the end product look fabulous. The customers are delighted.

Absolutely thrilled with the level of professionalism, attention and knowledge that Sam has put into getting our most recent planning application through. I had an idea in my head of how I wanted the scheme laid out but Sam did what good architects should do and laid out an alternative scheme which gained us an extra bedroom where I thought not possible. Bavain design comes highly recommended as far as I'm concerned!

Bavian Design undertook a complete renovation of my flat including moving the kitchen from one room to another and a new bathroom. Doorways were widened, ceilings were raised, new floors were installed, and much else! The final result was absolutely perfect, far exceeding my expectations. Sam and Marina are brilliant at what they do and they really go the extra mile for their clients. I feel lucky to have worked with them -- it's hard to imagine another firm performing at their level of conscientiousness, attention to detail, and design acumen.