We were about to invite tenders for a 5 month project, and a major commitment for us. It comprised a reconfiguration of our ground floor which included demolishing internal loadbearing walls and inserting steel frames. It also included a new kitchen, toilet and shower room, and utility area.

We invited 4 firms to submit tenders, including Allium Construction. We were immediately impressed by Wayne Marsh, Allium’s CEO and Founder. He was the most enthusiastic out of the 4 invited. In preparing his tender he spent by far the longest period with us (3 hours) surveying the site, and discussing our proposed plans in minute detail. This gave us a high degree of comfort, and a good feeling that we were dealing with a quite unusual builder. He immersed himself in our vision, and made a number of helpful suggestion for changes to our plans in order to optimise the outcome we were seeking. Nikki is an interior designer specialising in finishing effects including Venetian and Moroccan plastering. Wayne immediately understood her vision for the project, and this stimulated a number of proactive and helpful discussions which resulted in very helpful changes and improvements. His quote was not the cheapest, but we knew it was the most comprehensive with the least risk of “unforeseen extras”.

Of course, a very responsive approach to preparing a tender does not automatically translate into a successful project without a good team of tradesmen in support. We were very impressed indeed with Wayne’s team. Vas can turn his hands to most things. Gerry, the carpenter, is first class. Charlie and Dimitri never stop. All 4 turn up at 8am each day with smiles on their faces and a spring in their steps, and are on the tools by 8:05am. Apart from brief and well deserved breaks, they work throughout the day. Nothing is too much trouble for them. They work as a team, get on really well together, and are always laughing and joking. We will miss them when the project has been completed.

From start to finish, Wayne has been totally involved. He has bought into our vision, and enhanced it with proactive suggestions. He made frequent site visits checking all aspects of progress, and often rolling his sleeves up to help when necessary. We know how difficult it can be to find a good, reliable builder. We do not hesitate to enthusiastically endorse Wayne and Allium Construction.