Ella-Marie's story has touched many people. Everyone wants to contribute whenever possible. And in this article, let that literally be the case: there's a good chance we're going to remodel!
Architect to the rescue
Let's start with architect Cy Van Steen (check out her website here). If
you're looking for someone with quick action, a listening ear and
lots of creativity: you've found her!
When we sent an email a few weeks ago asking if there was time to
discuss it, we got feedback in no time. A few days later we already
had an appointment to tell our story and provide information. The
proposal of plan we received from her was not what we expected....
. And that is precisely good. Because all the things we had in mind
as laymen turned out to be wrong and were adjusted by her
professionalism into a beautiful concept.
Deneve Construct
In difficult times one knows one's friends. And the feedback we get from you all is overwhelming. Similarly, we received a helping hand from friend Danny. When Ella-Marie came into the world, he was one of the first to welcome her and for the next almost-11 years he watched her grow up as well. So we can say that he really knows who Ella-Marie is and can assess what is going on. Danny has worked as Director of Construction for Group Deneve for many years. He will use his experience, knowledge and contacts to make the construction go as quickly and efficiently as possible. Partly because Danny is willing to support us so hard, it looks like we are going to be able to accomplish a solid home extension.
MaVa
Talking about good friends! Maarten has known Ella-Marie for
several years because his little daughter started in the
kindergarten class where Ella-Marie's school career began. So how
nice it is that the moms and dads of both kids get along well too!
From weekends away together, to late nights (or early mornings) at
cafes, we know where to find each other.
Maarten has vast experience as a specialist for general electrical
work. Ella-Marie her father can explain things relatively well,
but he doesn't know how to use a screwdriver or drill. Therefore,
there is also a healthy portion of jealousy towards Maarten. With
incredible speed, innovative ideas and always a positive attitude,
he and his team start every job. The fact that the assignment is
then also completed to a high standard is a bonus.
Maarten is very sympathetic to Ella-Marie. Since the daughters also
play together, he also sees how Ella-Marie is starting to struggle.
With his heart in the right place, he has already indicated that he
will do everything he can to ensure that the expansion goes as
smoothly and well as possible.
But ... what will happen next?
To tell it very succinctly: all of "the downstairs" is going out
and we are building a huge piece on top.
The first plans have been drawn and some minor adjustments have
already been made. We are going to make sure that Ella-Marie has a
nice bedroom and adapted bathroom on the ground floor. There will
also be separate living areas, so that Ella-Marie (with wheelchair)
will still have her place to rest. Everything will be prepared
wheelchair-adapted: wider doors, wider bathroom/toilet, .... .
Because of course the intention is to get rid of the wheelchair as
soon as possible, but we have to take into account that there will
be years of mobile difficulties.
As soon as the plans are finalized, we will give you a glimpse of what is to come! Of course, we will have to wait a while until the mandatory waiting periods are over and the permit is in, but we are looking forward with hope to a quick realization of the plans.
Until the next blog!
